Washington (TDI): United States President Donald Trump expressed disappointment over the current state of the US‑UK relationship, saying it was “sad to see” that ties with Britain were “not what they were,” following Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s initial hesitation to provide military support for strikes against Iran.
Speaking to The Sun on Tuesday, Trump contrasted Britain’s stance with other allies, praising France for its support and describing the UK’s response as “much different from others.” He emphasized that the US did not need Britain to conduct military operations in the Middle East but added that Starmer “should have helped… he should have.”
Starmer initially withheld approval for US forces to use British military bases during the initial strikes on Iran, though he later authorized “limited” use for defensive purposes after Iranian drone and missile attacks targeted British nationals and interests in the region.
Addressing parliament on Monday, Starmer underscored his commitment to Britain’s national interest and international law. He stressed that the UK would not participate in “offensive strikes” against Iran but would protect Britons and allies in the Gulf. “We all remember the mistakes of Iraq, and we have learned those lessons,” he said, referring to Britain’s 2003 involvement in the US-led invasion of Iraq.
Senior British minister Darren Jones told Times Radio that the US‑UK relationship remains crucial. He noted that Britain had learned from past conflicts that military action should be taken with international partners and a clear legal framework.
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Trump also criticized the pace of Starmer’s approval, suggesting the delay in granting access to British bases, including the strategic Diego Garcia facility in the Chagos Islands, was unusual. Starmer’s decision on Diego Garcia came after a US request for its use in defensive operations to protect approximately 300,000 Britons in the Gulf region. Trump expressed disappointment over a sovereignty deal involving the Chagos Islands, though he acknowledged that allowing US operations from the base was “useful.”
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Despite differing views on immediate military support, Starmer’s spokesperson emphasized that UK‑US bilateral relations remain strong. “The UK and US are staunch allies, as we have been for many decades,” the spokesperson said.
