Will play full part in reopening Strait of Hormuz, Starmer says

The UK will play its full part in reopening the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible. At the G7 summit in France, Starmer said he and President Macron are coordinating with partners to protect vessels. Iran has kept the strait closed since February, impacting energy markets and prices. Trump said the strait would reopen once a deal with Iran is signed. Starmer said the UK could back the effort with a defensive, multilateral mission, including mine clearance if needed. The UK has pledged Typhoon jets, drones and the HMS Dragon for such a mission. Macron noted France could patrol soon, and an aircraft carrier is already in the region. About 20 countries have contributed, with four already present in the area. Ukraine remains on the agenda, with Starmer set for talks with Zelensky. Britain announced a package of 70 sanctions targeting Russia’s shadow fleet, financial networks and military supply chains. The talks underscore a shared goal to safeguard sea lanes and global energy markets.