British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that "the war in the Middle East is not our war." Speaking at a press conference at 10 Downing Street in London on Wednesday, Starmer added: "While we are working at pace for de-escalation and peace, it has now become clear that the impact of this war will affect the future of our country," according to AFP.
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He continued: "I want to reassure the British people that no matter how fierce this storm gets, we are well-positioned to weather it, and we have a long-term plan to emerge as a stronger and more secure nation." The Prime Minister reiterated that the United Kingdom would not be dragged into the conflict because "it does not serve our national interest."
Starmer pointed out that the "most effective way" to lower the cost of living is through de-escalation in the Middle East and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Tensions with the U.S. and NATO
Responding to questions regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks about withdrawing from NATO, Starmer said: "Regardless of the pressure on me and others, I will act in the British national interest."
President Trump had told the British newspaper The Telegraph that he is seriously considering withdrawing the United States from NATO after the alliance failed to join his war against Iran. Trump described the alliance as a "paper tiger," stating that the issue of the U.S. exiting the mutual defense treaty has become "more than just a reconsideration" of relations.
The U.S. President added that this decision reflects the White House’s stance on Europe as a defense partner after NATO allies refused to send warships to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20% of the world's oil passes and which Tehran has blockaded for weeks.
Trump specifically criticized Britain, accusing Keir Starmer of not having the Royal Navy ready to participate in the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, stating: "You don't even have a navy... and you have broken aircraft carriers."
Maritime Security Initiative
The British Prime Minister announced that the UK will host a meeting this week involving more than 30 countries prepared to act to ensure the safety of maritime transport in the Strait of Hormuz.
"The UK has so far gathered 35 countries around the Declaration of Intent we issued to stand together for maritime security in the Gulf. Later this week, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper will host a meeting of these nations for the first time," Starmer concluded.
