British Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed progress toward a possible agreement between the United States and Iran to end the Iran war.
The development is significant because a successful deal could stabilize global energy markets by securing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint.
Starmer issued the statement on Sunday, May 24, 2026 [1]. The prime minister said, "I welcome the progress towards an agreement to end the Iran war."
While supporting the peace process, Starmer emphasized specific security requirements for any final treaty. He said that any agreement must ensure the "unconditional and unrestricted" access to the Strait of Hormuz.
The British leader's position aligns with other international figures monitoring the negotiations. Ursula von der Leyen also said she welcomed the progress made toward an agreement between the United States and Iran.
The focus on the Strait of Hormuz highlights the economic stakes involved in the conflict. Because the waterway is essential for global oil shipments, the U.S. government is prioritizing the guarantee of free navigation as a prerequisite for a sustainable peace.
Starmer did not provide specific details on the terms of the ongoing negotiations but said that the current progress is a positive step toward ending the hostilities.
“"I welcome the progress towards an agreement to end the Iran war."”
The U.K.'s public endorsement of the US-Iran talks signals a strategic priority to prioritize maritime security and economic stability over prolonged military conflict. By explicitly linking the peace deal to the 'unconditional' access of the Strait of Hormuz, the British government is signaling that a ceasefire alone is insufficient; the agreement must address the structural vulnerabilities of global energy transit to be considered a success.
