Published on March 22, 2026
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to convene an emergency meeting of the Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms (COBR) as the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has raised severe concerns about the impact on the cost of living in the UK. The crisis, now entering its fourth week, has prompted fears that rising energy prices and supply chain disruptions could further strain households already grappling with the economic fallout from previous global events.
As the situation in the Middle East escalates, Starmer has emphasized the UK’s commitment to protecting its citizens from economic instability. Speaking on Sunday, he assured the public that his government is prepared to take necessary measures to cushion the blow of potential aftershocks from the conflict. “We must stand firm against the economic tides that threaten our way of life,” Starmer stated. He reiterated that the resilience of the UK economy will remain a priority while navigating this complex geopolitical landscape.
The Prime Minister’s reassurances come amidst warnings from economists who suggest that the war could lead to increases in oil prices that might exacerbate inflation already affecting various sectors. Analysts predict that should military engagements escalate, the knock-on effects could include higher transport costs, increased prices for goods, and ultimately, a tighter squeeze on disposable income for British families.
Concerns are particularly acute in sectors heavily reliant on energy imports, with some experts forecasting that sustained conflict could disrupt oil supplies from the Middle East, potentially leading to price surges reminiscent of previous crises. The UK government has been in talks with global partners to mitigate these risks, seeking alternative energy supplies and bolstering domestic production where feasible.
Opposition leaders have urged the government to act swiftly and decisively to support vulnerable populations, particularly as energy bills are set to rise again in the coming months. “The people of this country deserve assurance that their government will do everything in its power to prevent energy poverty,” said a spokesperson for the Labour Party.
Starmer’s COBR meeting aims to solidify a comprehensive policy response that addresses both immediate and long-term economic implications. The Prime Minister’s cabinet will explore avenues for financial aid and set out a strategy to stabilize energy prices, alongside enhanced support for businesses and families facing the brunt of the conflict’s fallout.
As the government prepares for this meeting, all eyes remain on the evolving situation in the Middle East and its potential ramifications at home. The outcome of the COBR discussions will likely set the tone for the government’s economic agenda as it seeks to navigate these turbulent waters while maintaining public confidence.