‘We should not be at the mercy of events abroad’ – Starmer
Starmer Insists UK Must Not Remain Vulnerable to External Forces
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has urged the UK to develop greater resilience against a “volatile and dangerous” global landscape, where crises like the Iranian conflict frequently disrupt stability. In a recent article for The Guardian, he emphasized the need to “recreate this nation” so that citizens are no longer swayed by developments overseas. This message was further reinforced during an interview with ITV’s Talking Politics, where he expressed frustration over the fluctuating energy costs affecting households, citing the influence of leaders such as Putin and Trump.
Global Travel and Strained Ceasefires
Starmer is currently in the Gulf, visiting Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar over three days to strengthen ties with regional partners. His itinerary coincides with growing concerns about the fragility of the ceasefire in the Iranian conflict, which has faced pressure over whether it extends to Lebanon. On Thursday evening, he engaged in a call with U.S. President Donald Trump, focusing on restoring shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route recently disrupted by the ongoing tensions.
Crises and the Need for Self-Sufficiency
“The past two months have shown why energy independence is vital for the UK,” Starmer stated. “Families and businesses should not see their costs rise and fall due to the actions of foreign leaders.”
Starmer highlighted how the UK has endured “nearly two decades of upheaval,” referencing the 2008 financial crash, Brexit, and the pandemic. He criticized Westminster’s repeated reliance on short-term fixes, asserting that “this time, it will be different.” The Iranian conflict, he argued, must serve as a “line in the sand,” prompting a shift toward policies that prioritize renewable energy, worker protections, and reforming the two-child benefit cap.
Political Reactions to Starmer’s Stance
Conservative Chairman Kevin Hollinrake challenged Starmer’s approach, questioning his commitment to energy security. “Why ban North Sea drilling and avoid welfare reform if the goal is resilience?” he asked, suggesting the policies risk increasing dependence on foreign energy sources.
Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Calum Miller MP acknowledged the need for resilience but noted Starmer’s failure to address the “greatest strategic challenge.” “The US is no longer a reliable ally, and we must deepen European partnerships,” he added.
A Reform UK representative stated, “The solution to global crises is clear: Use our own energy, control our borders, and place the British people first.” Meanwhile, Green Party leader Zack Polanski welcomed Starmer’s recognition of US reliance, calling it a step toward “European security partnerships,” while stressing that “Starmer’s words are not a plan” to combat rising energy bills and widening inequality.
Resilience as Control
Starmer’s vision centers on building a nation “capable of steering its own course.” “Resilience gives us control,” he said. “Without it, we are perpetually reshaped by forces we cannot dictate.” His remarks align with Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper’s Mansion House speech, which underscored the recurring impact of global events on the UK’s economy, from the pandemic to the Ukraine invasion and now the Iranian standoff.
