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Tue, 17 Mar 2026

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 Trump 'not happy' with UK response to Iran conflict

It comes after Sir Keir Starmer said the UK was working with allies on a plan to protect the Strait of Hormuz.
US President Donald Trump has criticized UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's response to the Iran conflict, stating he was "not happy" with the UK's involvement and saying it should be more proactive in helping to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump claimed that some countries, including the UK, had been considered allies but were now being disappointing by not showing enough enthusiasm for the cause. He specifically mentioned the UK, calling it a "strong ally", but added that he was surprised by its attitude towards the war. Sir Keir Starmer has said the UK is working with allies to develop a collective plan to restore freedom of navigation in the region and ease economic impact. However, Trump suggested that the UK's reluctance to commit to sending more ships to protect the strait was a disappointment. Oil prices have surged due to Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, and there are concerns about a potential attack from sea mines. The US has urged other countries to send warships to the Gulf to help protect the shipping channel, but Trump acknowledged that some countries were hesitant to commit. The UK has already deployed minehunters to the region, and Sir Keir Starmer said he was looking at all options for how to proceed. However, Trump's criticism suggests that the US is growing frustrated with what it sees as a lack of enthusiasm from its allies in addressing the crisis. In related news, former head of the British military Gen Sir Nick Carter has stated that Nato was designed as a defensive alliance and not an alliance that would automatically follow one country into war. EU foreign ministers have met to discuss how to protect the Strait of Hormuz, but there appears to be no clear plan for collective action. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced £53m in support for households affected by rising heating oil prices.