British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is visiting the Gulf region to discuss the Strait of Hormuz. During this visit, he will discuss diplomatic efforts to support and maintain the ceasefire between the United States and Iran. He will be based at 10 Downing Street, the British Prime Minister’s official residence and office.
He stated that the purpose of his Gulf visit is to find a long-term solution to the conflict and protect the British and global economies from future threats. He welcomed the ceasefire between the United States and Iran. Starmer will reiterate Britain’s commitment to de-escalation and discuss efforts to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. His office described the ceasefire as a positive development.
The British Prime Minister said, “I welcome the ceasefire agreement, which will bring a moment of relief to the region and the world.” He further stated that, working closely with our partners, we must do everything possible to support and maintain this ceasefire and to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. After nearly six weeks of military conflict, the US and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire.
US President Donald Trump announced this on Truth Social on Tuesday. Starmer’s three-day visit follows a meeting convened by the UK last week, attended by more than 40 countries, including India, to begin developing a concrete plan for reopening the Strait of Hormuz after the end of hostilities.
10 Downing Street stated that, given the ceasefire, work on this initiative will now proceed with greater urgency and that the Prime Minister will discuss the matter further during his meetings with regional leaders.
These countries welcomed the ceasefire.
Leaders from around the world—including those from the United Nations, Australia, Germany, New Zealand, and Malaysia—have welcomed the two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran. A spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all parties to work toward long-term peace in the region.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed the ceasefire, seeing it as an opportunity for dialogue aimed at resolving the conflict in West Asia. Welcoming the ceasefire, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said his goal now is to negotiate a permanent end to the war. “We are working closely with our partners on this matter.”
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters also welcomed the announcements made by the United States and Iran. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also welcomed the ceasefire and appealed for lasting peace in the region.
