Donald Trump criticises PM Keir Starmer, says US-UK relations are strained
US President Donald Trump says he is deeply saddened to see the diplomatic relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom now at its lowest point. The tension stems from disagreements over using military force against Iran in early March 2026. Trump made the remarks after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was perceived as slow to grant permission for the US military to use British air bases to launch a strategic strike against Iran. ‘This is a different world. Our relationship with your country (the UK) is very different from before. It is very sad to see this relationship clearly not like it used to be,’ Trump said in an exclusive interview with British media The Sun, on Tuesday (3/3). Trump lamented Starmer’s stance, which he sees as not helping at a crucial moment, contrasting with the full backing shown by France and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. ‘I never thought I would get this from the UK. We love the UK,’ he added. Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended his decision not to permit the use of British bases in the initial strike on Saturday (28/2). He stressed that the UK does not believe in leadership changes in Iran through unilateral military strikes. However, the situation dramatically shifted on Sunday (1/3). Starmer described Iran’s escalation as an excessive act that threatens the safety of British personnel overseas. This was reinforced by reports of drone interceptions targeting the UK military base on Cyprus. Following the incident, Starmer eventually authorised the US to use British military bases in what was described as a defensive strike against Iranian missile launch sites. In London, Starmer’s policy drew sharp criticism from the opposition. Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch accused the government of being overly cautious and fearful in facing Iran’s aggression. Badenoch said Starmer’s hesitancy not only jeopardises Britain’s national security but also undermines confidence in the United States as a major security partner. To date, tensions between Washington and London over Iran strategy remain a focus for the international community. (Anadolu/The Sun/Ant/I-2) United Kingdom rejects requests for the US to use the Diego Garcia base to attack Iran. Trump criticises PM Keir Starmer over the Chagos Islands. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has vowed to retaliate against US and Israeli strikes on civilian facilities. Casualties exceed 700 following the death of Ali Khamenei. The tensions in the Middle East reach a new boil at the start of 2026. The Chinese government strongly condemns air strikes by the United States and Israel targeting public facilities in Iran, killing civilians. Trump explains the reasons behind the US strike on Iran, claiming the move was to pre-empt an attack by Teheran that is described as ‘crazy’. Wife of the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was reported dead, according to Mehr News Agency, amid the escalating conflict between Iran, the US and Israel.