‘We should not be at the mercy of events abroad’ – Starmer
‘We should not be at the mercy of events abroad’ – Starmer
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for the UK to develop greater resilience against a global landscape defined by instability and unpredictability. In an article for The Guardian, he highlighted the need to restructure the nation so that citizens are less affected by external upheavals, such as the Iranian conflict. The leader also shared his frustrations during an interview with ITV’s Talking Politics, stating he is tired of families and businesses facing fluctuating costs due to decisions made by foreign leaders like Putin or Trump.
Currently, Starmer is visiting the Gulf region, engaging with key allies. His itinerary includes meetings with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah, followed by stops in the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar. This trip coincides with growing tensions over a fragile ceasefire in the Iranian conflict, particularly concerning its applicability to Lebanon. On Thursday, he spoke with US President Donald Trump, focusing on restoring shipping flow through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been disrupted by the ongoing crisis.
“The past two months have shown why the UK must prioritize energy independence,” Starmer remarked. “People should not see their energy bills rise and fall based on the actions of distant leaders.”
Starmer emphasized that the UK has endured a series of crises over nearly two decades, from the 2008 financial crash to Brexit and the pandemic. He criticized Westminster’s tendency to address immediate challenges with short-term solutions before seeking to restore stability. “This time, it will be different,” he declared, positioning the Iran conflict as a pivotal moment requiring a firm stance.
He outlined measures like investing in renewable energy, supporting workers’ rights, and reforming the two-child benefit cap as steps toward building resilience. “Resilience grants us control,” he argued. “Without it, we are constantly thrown off balance by forces beyond our reach.”
Political Responses
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper reinforced Starmer’s stance during a Mansion House speech in central London. “The Iran crisis is not a one-off event,” she noted. “It’s the third major international disruption in six years, from the pandemic to the Ukraine invasion. Turbulence is now the norm, and the UK must adapt.”
Conservative Chairman Kevin Hollinrake challenged Starmer’s plans, asking, “Why is he halting North Sea drilling and avoiding welfare reforms?” He claimed these actions undermine energy independence and leave the country vulnerable to foreign influence. Liberal Democrat Calum Miller echoed the call for resilience but criticized the lack of clarity on the UK’s strategic priorities. “The government needs to confront the greatest threat we face,” he said.
A Reform UK spokesperson echoed Starmer’s message, suggesting, “The solution to global crises is simple: use domestic energy, control borders, and prioritize the people.” Meanwhile, Green Party leader Zack Polanski praised Starmer for acknowledging long-standing concerns about reliance on the US. “He’s finally aligning with the Greens’ vision,” Polanski added, “but his words lack a concrete strategy to address the widening economic divide.”
