The United Nations has evacuated British sailors from the Strait of Hormuz. The quiet deal, sealed in Geneva, avoids a naval confrontation. For now.
Whitehall sources say the accord is a temporary measure. But it buys time. The navy can breathe. The Treasury can calculate. Downing Street can spin.
This is classic British statecraft: avoid the big bang, secure the gradual retreat. The sailors are safe. The flag follows.
But don't mistake this for weakness. The Game continues. Iran got its win. Britain got its people back. The next move is already being whispered in the lobby bars.
The real story? The UN's role as a stalking horse. Behind closed doors, it was MI6 and the Swiss who did the heavy lifting. The UN flag was just a convenient umbrella.
Tonight, the sailors drink tea. The mandarins drink Scotch. And we watch the smoke.
