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Is The Strait Of Hormuz Actually Open (Or Shut) Right Now?
Ahead of the UK Prime Minister's appearance in parliament, the episode reviews what Keir Starmer knew about Lord Mandelson’s security vetting. It also reports ongoing US–Iran talks over the Strait of Hormuz, and includes reporting from Tehran and Scotland on how these issues may influence the May elections.
Why It Matters
The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic global shipping chokepoint, and these discussions intersect international diplomacy with domestic political considerations ahead of elections.
Timeline
6 Events
Laura reporting from Scotland on voters and May elections
April 19, 2026
Laura has been in Scotland speaking to voters and party leaders about how those issues and others will affect which way voters go in the May elections.
Lyse Doucet interview in Tehran (Paddy's questions)
April 19, 2026
Paddy has been putting those questions to Lyse Doucet in Tehran.
Questioning whether the Strait is open or closed and ceasefire breach
April 19, 2026
The episode asks whether the Strait of Hormuz is currently open or closed and whether a ceasefire has been breached.
US–Iran negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz
April 19, 2026
Negotiations continue between the US and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz.
Liz Kendall interview on Starmer's stance and Mandelson vetting
April 19, 2026
Laura spoke to cabinet minister Liz Kendall, who backed the PM and said that Starmer would have blocked the appointment of Lord Mandelson as US ambassador had he known he failed security vetting.
Ahead of the Prime Minister's appearance in parliament on Mandelson vetting
April 19, 2026
The episode discusses what Sir Keir Starmer knew, or did not know, about Lord Mandelson’s vetting by the foreign office ahead of the Prime Minister’s appearance in parliament.