UK will not join Iran conflict, Starmer says Strait of Hormuz reopening a priority

PM Starmer confirms that Britain is working alongside allied nations to restore maritime traffic in the region and reopen the Strait of Hormuz a press conference in London

LONDON: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-March 16th, 2026) UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday that the United Kingdom would not participate in the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

However, he confirmed that Britain is working alongside allied nations to restore maritime traffic in the region and reopen the Strait of Hormuz a press conference in London, Starmer acknowledged that reopening the strategic waterway will not be an easy task but emphasized its urgent importance. He said coordinated measures and discussions with allied countries are already underway.

Starmer added that a credible and practical plan is required to address the Strait of Hormuz, though no final decision has yet been made. He also clarified that the matter will not become a NATO mission.

Highlighting the wider impact of the conflict, the prime minister called for an immediate end to the war in the middle East the UK maintains very strong relations with US President Donald Trump.