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UK PM welcomes ceasefire during Gulf visit
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has praised the overnight ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States, calling it a "moment of relief" for the region and the world. Starmer is currently on a pre-planned trip to the Gulf, where he is set to discuss diplomatic efforts to support and maintain the truce.
Ceasefire follows Trump ultimatum
The agreement was reached just over an hour before a deadline set by former US President Donald Trump, who had warned that "a whole civilisation will die" if Iran did not comply. Downing Street had previously urged de-escalation in response to Trump's remarks.
Trump announced the ceasefire on his social media platform, Truth Social, stating it was contingent on Iran's "COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz."
Iran sets conditions for truce
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed the ceasefire, saying it would take effect if attacks against Iran were halted. He added that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be guaranteed for two weeks.
"Together with our partners, we must do all we can to support and sustain this ceasefire, turn it into a lasting agreement, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz."
Sir Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister
Political reactions in the UK
Conservative Party's shadow housing secretary, Sir James Cleverly, described the ceasefire as an opportunity for Iran to make "serious choices" about its domestic and international conduct. He emphasised that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains an "absolute priority."
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey welcomed the truce but questioned the UK's ability to trust Trump, calling him a "totally unreliable ally." He warned that failure to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could lead to higher inflation and slower economic growth.
Background to the conflict
The war began in February after the US and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran, citing concerns over Tehran's nuclear programme. Iran retaliated with attacks across the Gulf and the wider Middle East, including a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz-a critical route for a fifth of global energy shipments.
The conflict triggered a surge in crude oil prices, raising concerns about living costs worldwide.
Next steps for UK diplomacy
Starmer is expected to meet UK military personnel in the region during his Gulf tour. Last week, the UK hosted a virtual summit with over 40 countries to build a coalition ensuring security in the Strait post-ceasefire, followed by a military planning conference on Tuesday.
The prime minister is scheduled to return to the UK on Friday.
