U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply criticised the United Kingdom’s response to the ongoing Iran conflict, saying he was “not happy” and “very surprised” by the stance of Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Trump said the UK should be “enthusiastically involved” in supporting U.S. efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran is currently blockading, disrupting global oil and gas supplies and driving up energy prices.
He suggested that countries assisting in protecting shipping routes in the region would face minimal resistance from Iran, adding that such cooperation is necessary given longstanding alliances.
The U.S. president also revealed details of a recent conversation with Starmer, criticising the British leader for consulting advisers before deciding whether to deploy naval assets to the Gulf.
“I was very surprised with the UK,” Trump said, expressing frustration that Britain had not committed to sending warships despite close cooperation on global security issues, including support for Ukraine.
His remarks came after Starmer reiterated that the UK would not be drawn into a wider Middle East conflict, stressing the need for a swift end to the war. Speaking at a press briefing, the prime minister maintained that Britain’s priority remains de-escalation.
Trump, however, argued that decisive action was needed, insisting that leaders should be able to make such calls without extended consultations. He also predicted that oil prices would fall rapidly if the situation in the Gulf stabilises.
The exchange highlights growing tension between the two allies over how to respond to the escalating crisis involving Iran, the United States and its partners, particularly as global energy markets react to disruptions in one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.
