U.S. President Donald Trump has urged British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to swiftly restart extensive oil and gas drilling in the North Sea, cautioning that surging energy costs—driven by the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict—could further strain the United Kingdom’s economy.

His remarks came as European wholesale gas prices jumped by 20 percent on Tuesday, building on a 40 percent increase recorded the previous day amid escalating Middle East tensions. In an interview, Trump argued that Britain should take immediate action to curb soaring energy costs, emphasizing that reopening the North Sea to full-scale drilling would help stabilise prices. He also referenced broader domestic pressures, including migration and economic concerns.

Global oil markets have reacted sharply to the crisis. Brent crude rose by up to 3.5 percent in early trading, pushing prices back above $80 per barrel, with analysts warning that prolonged conflict could drive prices toward $100. The surge in oil and gas costs is expected to heighten inflation in the UK, placing additional pressure on Chancellor Rachel Reeves ahead of her upcoming Spring Statement.

Trump, who returned to office in 2025 advocating expanded fossil fuel production, has consistently criticised Britain’s energy policies. Under Starmer’s Labour government, windfall taxes on oil and gas profits have been increased and extended, while new exploration licences have been restricted—measures critics argue deter domestic investment.

Although the UK has scaled back production, it remains reliant on imported fossil fuels, including supplies from Norway, the U.S., and Qatar. Recent disruptions, including the shutdown of a refinery operated by QatarEnergy following a drone incident, have further unsettled markets.

Industry leaders have warned that limiting North Sea development while depending on foreign imports raises concerns about energy security, especially given estimates that billions of barrels of oil equivalent remain in UK waters.