- Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper chaired international talks to address Iran's "reckless" blocking of the Strait of Hormuz, which has trapped 2,000 ships and caused global oil prices to soar.
- Ms Cooper emphasised that the UK's priority is to act in its national interest, pursuing diplomatic, economic, and coordinated measures to reopen the vital shipping lane, rather than military action.
- She dodged questions on whether the US remained an ally, a day after Chancellor Rachel Reeves expressed anger at Donald Trump over the Iran conflict.
- The UK is leading a diplomatic initiative with countries like France, Germany, and Gulf nations, contrasting with Donald Trump's stance that allies should unblock the waterway themselves.
- A meeting of military planners is scheduled for next Tuesday to discuss long-term shipping safety, including potential mine clearance, following over 25 attacks on vessels in the strait.
IN FULL