The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, travelled to the Middle East this week to reaffirm the United Kingdom’s commitment to regional stability, support the ceasefire agreed on 8 April, and advance efforts to ensure the prompt reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
During the visit, the Prime Minister engaged with key regional leaders to strengthen diplomatic cooperation and reinforce shared security priorities. In Saudi Arabia, Starmer met with His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, to discuss efforts to sustain the ceasefire and regional stability. In the United Arab Emirates, he held discussions with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. In Bahrain, he met with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. In Qatar, the Prime Minister met with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar.
Additional engagements with British and allied military personnel were held across the region, where Starmer showcased Britain’s continued support for its armed forces and close operational coordination with international partners.
Throughout the visit, the Prime Minister reiterated the UK’s firm support for the ceasefire and emphasised the importance of de-escalation, stability, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to ensure the free flow of trade. He highlighted the UK’s commitment to working with allies to sustain peace and security across the region.