Sir Keir Starmer and Donald Trump have spoken of the importance of reopening a key shipping route in the Middle East, in their first conversation since the US president called for Britain to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz.
Tehran’s stranglehold on oil tankers passing through the narrow sea passage has driven energy prices up across the world.
At home, its has resulted in the Government mulling over steps to help people with the cost of living.
On the global stage, the crisis has led Mr Trump to appeal to other world leaders – including Sir Keir – to help secure the strait with a naval presence.
Giving a readout of the Sunday call between Sir Keir and the US leader, a Downing Street spokeswoman said the pair “discussed the ongoing situation in the Middle East and the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz to end the disruption to global shipping, which is driving up costs worldwide”.
“The Prime Minister also expressed his condolences for the American service personnel who have lost their lives during the conflict,” she added.
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