Starmer Blames Trump, Putin for UK Energy Volatility in Iran Conflict

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer voiced frustration on Thursday with the actions of U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, blaming their decisions for causing volatile energy prices that have affected households and businesses across the United Kingdom. Speaking during a multi-day tour of Gulf states, Starmer highlighted the economic fallout from the ongoing Iran conflict, which began on February 28 and has disrupted global energy supplies.

The remarks came as Starmer wrapped up visits to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and other regional partners, where he focused on supporting a fragile ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran and restoring navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has maintained a near-total blockade of the vital waterway, through which about one-fifth of the world's oil passes, leading to sharp spikes in fuel costs worldwide. In an interview with ITV, Starmer said, "I'm fed up with the fact that families across the country see their bills go up and down on energy, businesses' bills go up and down on energy because of the actions of Putin or Trump across the world." He argued that the UK should not be forced to endure such international...