On March 19, 2026, UK health secretary Wes Streeting made headlines during the BBC show Question Time while addressing a Tory panellist, Helen Whately. Streeting urged the audience to think of the Hokey Cokey when considering Whately's response regarding the ongoing war in the Middle East, particularly focusing on Iran's actions. The health secretary emphasized that the Conservative party's stance appeared inconsistent and lacked clarity, contributing to confusion about the UK's position in the conflict. His remarks resonated with the audience, drawing laughter and highlighting the growing concern about political coherence in the context of a turbulent international situation. Following this exchange, ministers convened to review the latest developments in the Middle East, especially in relation to Iran's aggressive actions targeting unarmed commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure, which included oil and gas facilities. The UK government’s meeting stressed the importance of collaborating with international partners to secure vital shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz. It was underscored that Iran’s targeting of international shipping not only posed serious threats to regional stability but also risked escalating economic pressures globally, including in the UK. The ministers condemned Iran's recent actions, which have included strikes against both UK-flagged vessels and those of allied nations. They characterized these strikes as reckless and warned that such provocations could deepen the crisis in the region. Additionally, the UK government reaffirmed its commitment to international law in the face of these challenges, promising to defend its interests and allies without becoming entangled in broader conflicts. Ministers were clear on the necessity for urgent de-escalation in the Middle East. Talks surrounding joint operations with the United States were mentioned, aimed at neutralizing threats posed by missile sites and other capabilities that Iran has utilized in its attacks against shipping. These discussions highlighted the significant challenges faced by the UK as it attempts to navigate this complex geopolitical landscape while maintaining its commitment to safeguarding international maritime security.