“We must not be subject to the whims of foreign events” – Starmer. Four hours ago. Kate Whannel, political reporter. Images from Getty. The UK must build greater resilience to navigate a “volatile and dangerous” world rife with frequent “shocks” such as the conflict in Iran, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has cautioned. In an article for The Guardian, he stated he is “thinking about the long-term, and remaking this country” to ensure people “are not at the mercy of events abroad.” In a separate appearance on ITV’s Talking Politics podcast, he expressed frustration that “families across the country see their bills go up and down… because of the actions of Putin or Trump.” The prime minister is on a three-day Gulf tour to engage with regional allies. On Wednesday, he met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah, and on Thursday, he visited the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar. His trip coincides with strains on a fragile ceasefire halting the Iranian conflict, amid disputes over whether it includes Lebanon. On Thursday evening, Sir Keir spoke by phone with US President Donald Trump. Downing Street states that the two men discussed the need “for a practical plan to get shipping moving” through the Strait of Hormuz, the shipping lane effectively closed due to the conflict. Israel to hold talks with Lebanon as death toll from Beirut attack rises to at least 303. The prime minister states that Israel’s strikes on Lebanon are unjust and must cease. Ships stay wary as they near the Strait of Hormuz during the shaky ceasefire.
