We should not be at the mercy of events abroad
Starmer’s call for resilience amid global instability
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has urged the UK to strengthen its capacity to withstand a world marked by “volatility and unpredictability,” highlighting the Iranian conflict as a recent example of disruptive international events. In an article for The Guardian, he emphasized the need to “rebuild this nation” so that citizens are not swayed by external circumstances. Starmer’s remarks come as he concludes a three-day journey to the Gulf region, visiting Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar to engage with allies.
The prime minister’s visit coincides with rising tensions over the Iranian crisis, which has threatened the stability of the Strait of Hormuz—a vital shipping route. On Thursday, he spoke with former U.S. President Donald Trump, focusing on restoring energy flow through the strait. Downing Street noted that the two leaders discussed the urgency of “developing a practical strategy” to address the disruption, which has influenced domestic energy costs and inflation.
“Families across the UK are watching their expenses fluctuate due to decisions made by leaders like Putin or Trump,” Starmer stated during an ITV interview. “I’m tired of seeing our economy constantly rocked by events beyond our control.”
Starmer cited a series of crises over the past two decades, including the 2008 financial crash, Brexit, and the pandemic, to argue for systemic change. “Our response has often been reactive—patching problems and clinging to the status quo,” he said. “This time, we will act differently, and the Iran conflict must serve as a defining moment for our resilience.”
He proposed policies such as investing in renewable energy, expanding workers’ rights, and abolishing the two-child benefit cap as steps toward greater self-reliance. “Resilience is about reclaiming control. Without it, we’re at the mercy of global turbulence,” Starmer asserted.
Political reactions to Starmer’s stance
Conservative Chairman Kevin Hollinrake criticized the prime minister, questioning his commitment to energy security. “Why is Starmer halting North Sea drilling and avoiding welfare reforms?” he asked. “Ignoring domestic energy production and leaving people dependent on foreign sources undermines resilience.”
Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Calum Miller agreed that resilience is vital but stressed the need for clarity. “Starmer hasn’t named the most pressing strategic challenge,” he said. “With trust in a Trump-led America eroding, we must focus on deepening European alliances.”
Reform UK’s spokesperson echoed the call for self-sufficiency. “To escape global crises, we need to harness our own energy, manage borders, and prioritize British interests,” they claimed.
Green Party leader Zack Polanski acknowledged Starmer’s growing awareness of long-standing concerns. “Greens have warned for years that reliance on the U.S. for security is unsustainable. We need stronger partnerships with Europe,” he said. “However, his statements lack concrete plans to address rising energy costs and widening inequality.”
