UK PM Keir Starmer said Britain will not join the Iran conflict despite pressure, stressing national interest. He announced a global summit to address the Strait of Hormuz crisis and restore stability.
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New Delhi: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has made it clear that Britain will not be drawn into the ongoing conflict involving Iran, asserting that decisions will be guided strictly by national interest.
Speaking during a national address, Starmer said he would not be influenced by external pressure, in remarks seen as a response to criticism from US President Donald Trump over allied support in the conflict.
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While ruling out direct involvement, Starmer announced that the UK will host an international summit aimed at addressing the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route currently affected by tensions.
He said around 35 countries have already agreed to cooperate in efforts to restore maritime security and ensure the free flow of energy supplies through the region.
I will always make decisions that are in the national interest.
It’s why we aren’t getting dragged into the Middle East conflict, and why we are fighting to protect your living standards.
And while opposition parties have responded by dividing communities, we respond with hope…
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) March 30, 2026
Starmer indicated that Britain is working on a combined strategy involving both diplomatic engagement and military preparedness for the post-conflict phase. He added that officials are developing plans to stabilise the region once hostilities subside.
The summit is expected to be led by the UK’s foreign secretary, with participation from multiple nations seeking to resolve disruptions in global trade routes.
The UK’s position comes amid escalating tensions with Washington. Trump recently suggested the possibility of withdrawing the United States from NATO, criticising allies for not backing US actions in the conflict.
He also urged European nations to take greater responsibility for securing energy supplies, including the Strait of Hormuz.
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Despite differences, Starmer reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to the NATO alliance. He emphasised the importance of maintaining strong ties with both the United States and European partners.
At the same time, he underlined the need for closer cooperation with Europe on defence, energy and economic matters.
The situation in West Asia has raised widespread concerns about disruptions to global oil and gas supplies, as well as trade routes. The Strait of Hormuz alone accounts for a significant share of global energy transit, making stability in the region a priority for many countries.
