UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to visit the Middle East after the United States and Iran reached a conditional ceasefire agreement, according to statements from Downing Street.
The visit comes as London seeks to support diplomatic efforts aimed at sustaining the truce, which follows weeks of escalating conflict in the region. Officials said Starmer would meet leaders in Gulf countries to discuss how to uphold the ceasefire and prevent further escalation.
Downing Street indicated that the prime minister would focus on ensuring the agreement evolves into a more stable and lasting arrangement. He is expected to return to the UK on Friday after holding a series of high-level meetings.
The ceasefire, reached shortly before a deadline set by Donald Trump, marks a temporary pause in hostilities that had raised concerns about wider regional instability. Trump had warned of severe consequences if Iran failed to reach an agreement and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement, Starmer welcomed the development, describing it as a moment of relief for both the region and the wider international community. He stressed the need for coordinated efforts with allies to ensure the ceasefire holds.
“Together with our partners, we must do all we can to support and sustain this ceasefire and turn it into a lasting agreement,” he said, adding that reopening the Strait of Hormuz would be a critical step.
The strategic waterway has been a central point of tension throughout the conflict. A significant portion of global energy supplies passes through the strait, and disruptions have already triggered volatility in oil markets and raised concerns about global fuel prices.
The ceasefire agreement reportedly includes conditions tied to the safe reopening of the strait, although details remain limited and have not been independently verified.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran would adhere to the ceasefire provided that attacks against Iran are halted. He added that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz could be ensured for a two-week period under the agreement.
The conflict, which began earlier this year, followed coordinated military actions by the US and Israel targeting Iranian facilities amid concerns over Tehran’s nuclear programme. Iran responded with strikes across the Gulf region and measures affecting maritime traffic.
The resulting disruption to shipping routes contributed to sharp increases in crude oil prices, with knock-on effects on fuel costs globally. Analysts have warned that prolonged instability in the region could have wider economic consequences.
Starmer is also expected to meet UK military personnel stationed in the region during his visit, a trip that had been scheduled prior to the ceasefire announcement.
Political reactions in the UK have reflected cautious optimism. Conservative figures described the ceasefire as an opportunity for Iran to reconsider its actions, particularly regarding its nuclear ambitions, while emphasising that the situation remains fragile.
Officials across multiple governments have stressed that while the agreement offers a temporary pause, sustained diplomatic engagement will be essential to prevent a return to conflict.