Source: [The Guardian, 16 June 2025]
Keir Starmer launches diplomatic push to head off Middle East crisis before G7 summit
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is spearheading urgent diplomacy ahead of the G7 in Canada amid escalating Israel–Iran tensions. In Ottawa, he met Canadian PM Mark Carney, calling for de‑escalation and international collaboration, and signalled arms and jet displacement to protect UK interests. The Foreign Office issued a “no‑travel” advisory for Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, hinting at contingency evacuations. Starmer has not ruled out defensive support for Israel but insists adherence to international law through diplomacy is paramount. He also engaged with the UAE’s President, leveraging regional influence. The UK’s position will be central at the G7, where leaders are expected to press President Trump on his Iran–Israel stance.
🔁 Reactions (tweets):
- Government (Starmer/X): “Our priority is de‑escalation through diplomacy—not deeper regional conflict.”
- Opposition (German Chancellor Merz/European leader): “We must hold the U.S. to account—President Trump needs a clear strategy, not unilateral action.”
- Viral/Public (Political analyst on Politico): “Starmer is angling to be Trump’s whisperer—charm diplomacy or overreach?”
📰 Bias Snapshot:
- Reuters/AP deliver neutral reporting: detailing meetings, military repositioning, travel advice, and G7 priorities without emotive framing.
- The Guardian underscores diplomatic nuance and Starmer’s balancing act, emphasising de‑escalation and moral responsibility (theguardian.com).
- Politico Europe injects analysis with hints of skepticism: spotlighting Starmer’s “love‑bombing” strategy towards Trump and questioning its efficacy (politico.eu).
📊 Sentiment: Neutral–positive.