UK and Saudi Arabia discuss situation around Iran

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah to discuss the situation related to Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. “PM Starmer began the talks by welcoming the ceasefire and explaining how current efforts must be focused on upholding and establishing lasting peace,” according to a statement from the UK Prime Minister’s Office on Wednesday (8/4). Starmer stressed that this is a very important moment to continue efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. “He also discussed the UK’s ongoing efforts to gather partners in order to agree on and plan the practical steps needed to provide assurances for shipping to cross the Strait,” the statement added. Starmer expressed thanks to Saudi Arabia for their efforts in protecting British citizens in the country. Further cooperation between the two nations in defence and security was also discussed during the negotiations. Previously, on Tuesday (7/4), US President Donald Trump announced that he had approved a ceasefire with Iran for two weeks and confirmed that Iran had also agreed to open the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council stated that Tehran would begin negotiations with the US on Friday (10/4) in Islamabad, Pakistan.