Starmer Urges Joint Effort With Businesses to Tackle Iran Conflict Impact
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday emphasized that addressing the economic fallout from the ongoing Iran conflict requires a coordinated effort between government and businesses. He made the remarks while meeting with senior industry leaders at Downing Street.
“The government can’t do it on its own,” Starmer told company chiefs, highlighting the need for collaboration to protect the UK economy amid rising oil prices and disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz.
Roundtable With Key Sectors
The meeting included executives from the energy, shipping, finance, and insurance sectors, alongside government officials and military representatives. Participants discussed the economic and security risks posed by the conflict in the Middle East.
Starmer reassured attendees that the UK would avoid direct involvement in the war but would continue to defend British citizens, interests, and allies in the Gulf region. He also noted that the government is developing “a viable plan for the Strait of Hormuz,” a critical global shipping route currently affected by Iranian actions.
Economic Concerns and International Coordination
The closure of the strait has already pushed oil prices higher and raised concerns about energy supply and inflation. Businesses are closely monitoring the situation while receiving updates on maritime security in the region.
Starmer added that he is coordinating with other countries to reduce tensions and seek a de-escalation strategy. “We need a coalition of countries working together to find a way forward,” he said.
The Middle East has seen continued escalation since US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran began on Feb. 28, resulting in over 1,340 deaths, including then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf nations hosting US forces, causing casualties, infrastructure damage, and global market disruption.
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