UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer clarifies stance on Middle East crisis

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that Britain will not be drawn into an expanded war with Iran. Speaking at a press conference at Downing Street, he emphasized that his government's primary priorities are protecting British citizens in the region, defending allies, and de-escalating the crisis. Starmer stated that the government is collaborating with international partners to develop a collective plan to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. To address the resulting energy market instability, the UK has worked with other nations to release emergency oil reserves. The Prime Minister acknowledged that prolonged conflict risks destabilizing the region and damaging the global economy, stressing the need for a swift resolution. His policy seeks to maintain security while avoiding a wider military confrontation, even as some external voices call for greater military involvement. The government is also assessing measures to mitigate the domestic impact of increased energy costs.