A major development has emerged in the Middle East conflict as the war enters its 17th day. Keir Starmer has held talks with Donald Trump about the escalating crisis around the Strait of Hormuz. The leaders discussed efforts to reopen the key maritime route after tensions rose due to restrictions linked to the conflict with Iran. Starmer has also spoken with Mark Carney to coordinate discussions on the crisis. Trump has urged countries including China and Japan to send naval warships to secure the route and warned NATO allies about the consequences of not supporting the United States. Reports suggest nearly 1,000 ships, including about 200 oil tankers, are currently stuck near the strait. Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps says the restrictions are part of its strategic response. Rising oil prices and possible troop deployment have increased fears of wider global escalation.


