Keir Starmer and global leaders have united to urge Israel to halt its attacks on Lebanon and advocate for a lasting cessation of hostilities between the US and Iran.
Today, the Prime Minister embarked on a trip to Saudi Arabia to engage in discussions with Gulf leaders aimed at achieving a sustainable solution to the ongoing conflict.
This visit follows Donald Trump’s retreat from his doomsday warnings and acceptance of a two-week ceasefire just before his ultimatum deadline with Iran expired. Trump had previously issued dire threats, indicating that failure to comply would result in dire consequences for civilization and the reopening of the vital Strait of Hormuz, blocked by Iran.
Despite the ceasefire agreement, Israel has persisted in its airstrikes on Lebanon, where it is in conflict with Hezbollah, a militant group backed by Iran.
A joint statement by the leaders of the UK, France, Italy, Germany, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, Spain, along with the Presidents of the European Commission and European Council, welcomed the ceasefire and emphasized the importance of swift progress towards a substantive peace agreement. They stressed the necessity of safeguarding the Iranian civilian population and regional security while averting a potential global energy crisis.
The leaders expressed their support for diplomatic endeavors and called on all parties to respect the ceasefire, particularly in Lebanon. They pledged their governments’ commitment to ensuring the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
During his discussions with Gulf leaders, the Prime Minister will explore ways to bolster the ceasefire and devise strategies to permanently reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for oil and gas shipments. The closure of this passage has led to a significant surge in global oil prices.
Additionally, Mr. Starmer is anticipated to meet with British and allied military personnel deployed in the region to express gratitude for their service.
