Prime Minister Keir Starmer has publicly criticized former US President Donald Trump's recent threat against Iran, calling it "wrong" to threaten civilian populations. The rebuke came during a parliamentary statement where Starmer emphasized the UK's commitment to staying out of the escalating conflict.
Trump had warned that a "whole civilization" would perish unless Iran agreed to end hostilities, a statement made just before the US and Iran reached a conditional two-week ceasefire. Starmer told MPs, "In relation to the language about destroying a civilization... that was wrong. A threat to Iranian civilians in that way is wrong." He added that such rhetoric contradicts the principles guiding his government.
Despite the diplomatic friction, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy met with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, highlighting ongoing cooperation. Lammy posted on social media about the importance of maintaining the ceasefire and restoring free shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
The UK has declined to participate in the US military blockade of Iranian ports, instead focusing on diplomatic efforts to reopen the vital shipping route. Starmer announced that Britain and France will host a summit aimed at ending the conflict and ensuring maritime security.
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey echoed concerns, calling Trump's words "reckless, immoral, and completely outside the bounds of international law." Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch urged the government to take concrete actions, including publishing a defense investment plan and approving North Sea energy projects to reduce vulnerability to oil price shocks.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments pass, has been effectively closed by Iran since late February. The blockade aims to cut off Tehran's revenue from tolls and oil exports, contributing to rising energy prices worldwide.