‘We should not be at the mercy of events abroad’ – Starmer

Prime Minister Keir Starmer Warns Against Global Volatility

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for the UK to strengthen its ability to withstand a world marked by unpredictable upheaval, citing the Iran conflict as a recent example. In a recent column for The Guardian, he emphasized the need to reshape the nation so that domestic stability is not dictated by external events. “We must be less vulnerable to shocks like the Iran crisis,” he wrote, highlighting the importance of long-term reforms.

During a three-day visit to the Gulf, Starmer engaged with regional leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah and officials from the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar. The trip coincides with mounting tensions over a fragile ceasefire in the Iranian conflict, particularly regarding its impact on Lebanon. On Thursday evening, he spoke with former U.S. President Donald Trump, focusing on restoring trade through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been disrupted by recent hostilities.

Cost of Living Linked to Global Conflicts

Starmer acknowledged that energy price fluctuations have significantly affected households and businesses, often tied to decisions by global leaders such as Vladimir Putin or Donald Trump. “Families see their bills rise and fall due to actions beyond our control,” he noted, underscoring his frustration with the UK’s dependence on foreign energy sources.

“The response from Westminster has always been the same—manage the crisis, apply a temporary fix, and then attempt to restore the old order. This time, it will be different,”

Starmer argued that the nation has endured nearly two decades of crises, from the 2008 financial crash to Brexit and the pandemic. He stressed that resilience is key to maintaining control over domestic affairs. “Without it, we’re constantly thrown off course by events beyond our borders,”

Political Responses to Starmer’s Call for Resilience

Conservative Chairman Kevin Hollinrake challenged Starmer’s vision, questioning his commitment to energy security. “How can we claim resilience when North Sea drilling is banned and welfare reforms are delayed?” he asked, implying the government is neglecting domestic energy production.

Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Calum Miller MP agreed with the need for greater resilience but criticized the lack of clear prioritization. “If the US is no longer a reliable ally, the government should focus on strengthening European partnerships,” he said, highlighting concerns over U.S. reliability.

A Reform UK spokesperson echoed Starmer’s message, advocating for self-reliance in energy, border control, and placing British citizens at the forefront of policy. “The solution to global crises is simple: use our own resources and secure our future,”

Green Party leader Zack Polanski praised Starmer for recognizing the shift away from U.S. dominance, though he argued the leader’s rhetoric lacked concrete action. “Energy bills are rising, inequality is deepening, and this government only makes superficial changes,”