UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump have spoken for the first time since tensions emerged over Britain’s response to Iran.
Downing Street confirmed the call but released limited details. Officials said the leaders discussed the security situation in the Middle East and military cooperation between the United Kingdom and the United States.
Tensions Over Iran Strategy
The conversation follows strong criticism from Trump over the UK’s stance on the conflict with Iran.
The US president recently suggested that Britain was considering sending aircraft carriers to the region. He dismissed the idea on social media and referred to the UK as “our once great ally.”
Trump also criticised Starmer for refusing a US request to allow British bases to support early offensive strikes against Iranian targets.
UK Position on Military Action
Prime Minister Starmer has said the UK will not join offensive military actions. However, the government allowed US forces to use British bases for defensive operations against Iranian missile sites.
According to Downing Street, the call between the two leaders focused on ongoing cooperation through the use of Royal Air Force bases.
Starmer also expressed condolences to the US following the deaths of six American soldiers during recent operations.
UK Government Defends Its Decision
Despite the criticism, the UK government continues to defend its approach.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said the prime minister was right to protect Britain’s national interests.
She explained that the UK does not need to agree with the United States on every issue.
“Our responsibility is to decide what is best for British citizens,” she said during a television interview.
Military Readiness in the Region
The UK has already deployed RAF jets to the Middle East. These aircraft help intercept missiles and drones launched by Iran toward allied countries.
The Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales has also been placed on advanced readiness, although officials have not confirmed whether it will deploy to the region.
Warnings From Iran
Meanwhile, Seyed Ali Mousavi warned Britain to avoid deeper involvement in the conflict.
He said any facilities or bases used against Iran could become “legitimate targets.”
Debate Over UK–US Alliance
Former UK prime minister Tony Blair also weighed in on the issue. Blair argued that the UK should have supported US strikes from the start.
However, the government said it must learn from past conflicts such as the Iraq War and make decisions based on national interests.
Downing Street said Starmer and Trump plan to speak again soon as the situation continues to develop.
