British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said that discussions during his recent visit to Gulf countries were largely focused on developing a practical plan to ensure the safe passage of ships through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking at the end of his tour, Starmer highlighted the importance of the waterway, which handles around 20% of global oil and gas shipments, making it one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
Prime Minister Starmer stated that this conflict will define our future generations, and we will have to respond to it, and we will respond strongly.” He added that he also discussed “collective defence” with Gulf leaders during his visit.
Starmer also spoke with US President Donald Trump on Thursday night. According to Downing Street, the two leaders discussed the need for a “practical plan” to move beyond the current ceasefire and restore secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Addressing the situation, the Prime Minister acknowledged that the ceasefire remains “extremely fragile” and told broadcasters that any “tolls or restrictions on passage” through the Strait of Hormuz would be unacceptable as part of a long-term peace agreement in the region.
On the other hand, Islamabad is under a virtual seal as it prepares for US-Iran peace talks, which are starting today (Friday) after a two-week ceasefire was announced between the two countries.
Delegation-level talks will begin today or tomorrow between the US and Iran, which Pakistan will mediate.
The US delegation is being led by Vice President J D Vance, along with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, while the Iranian delegation is headed by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Meanwhile, preparations in Islamabad to host the delegations have reportedly been completed.
Read more: New MNJ Motorway proposed as alternate route to KKH
