British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has held discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney about the escalating situation in the Middle East, with particular attention on the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz. According to Downing Street, the leaders emphasized the urgent need to reopen the strategic shipping route, which is vital for global trade and energy supplies. The disruption has already begun driving up transportation and oil costs around the world, creating concerns for international markets. During the call with President Trump, Starmer also expressed condolences for American service members who have lost their lives since the conflict began. In a separate conversation with Canada’s prime minister, both leaders agreed to continue discussions during a planned bilateral meeting. At the same time, the International Energy Agency signaled that emergency oil reserves may soon be released in an effort to stabilize global markets if shipping through the region remains disrupted.

While diplomatic talks continue, military officials suggest the conflict could persist for weeks. Israeli defense representatives have indicated that operational plans extend for several more weeks, with additional targets expected to be struck as part of ongoing military efforts. The status of Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has also become a point of intense speculation. He has not appeared publicly since early March, and some Western officials have questioned his condition following reported strikes, though Iranian authorities insist he remains in good health and fully in control. The conflict, which intensified after a major strike in Tehran earlier this year, has also triggered wider regional tensions. Reports of drone incidents near Dubai’s airport, warnings of potential attacks in Gulf cities, and continued clashes involving regional groups have raised concerns about stability across the Middle East. Meanwhile, international leaders—including Pope Leo—have called for restraint and renewed dialogue to prevent further escalation.