The Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared on Wednesday that the global instability caused by the war in Iran requires the UK to refocus on closer economic and defense ties with Europe, following criticism from US President Donald Trump.
Starmer emphasized that strengthening relations with Europe would be at the heart of a summit with the European Union planned for this summer, while warning that the consequences of the Iranian conflict will be felt for a whole generation.
“It is increasingly clear that, faced with the growing volatility of the world, our long-term national interest requires a closer partnership with our European allies,” Starmer told reporters during a press conference at Downing Street.
Trump has repeatedly insulted Starmer, calling him weak for refusing to commit to the US in the war against Iran, stating he was “no Winston Churchill” and describing British aircraft carriers as “toys.”
As a sign of a shift in British foreign policy away from the US, traditionally its closest ally, Starmer stated that he sees the future of his country aligning more with Europe.
LONDON ORGANIZES SUMMIT ON THE STRAIT REOPENING
After Trump’s reelection in 2024, Starmer had tried to position himself as a bridge between Europe and the US. However, their relationship deteriorated publicly over the Iranian issue.
Initially rejecting a US request to strike Iran from two British bases, Starmer later accepted what he called defensive missions to protect residents of the region, including British nationals.
Asked about Trump’s criticism, Starmer stated that he would not succumb to the “pressure” from the US president to be drawn into war.
Starmer emphasized that the government is concentrating on deepening its relations with Europe, deeming it necessary to repair some of the “deep damage” caused by Brexit.
Although Starmer called for an “ambitious” rekindling of relations, he ruled out any return of the UK to the EU’s customs union or single market.
The Conservative Party in opposition criticized Starmer, accusing him of wanting to “reopen old Brexit wounds,” while the populist Reform UK party felt he should have announced measures to reduce energy prices.
Starmer did not announce any new household support measures at the press conference. However, he clarified that the UK would host meetings with its allies this week to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy transit route blocked by Iran following attacks by the US and Israel. Thirty-five countries are now involved in these efforts.
Foreign Affairs Minister Yvette Cooper will chair a virtual meeting on Thursday to assess diplomatic and political measures aimed at reopening the strait “once the fighting ceases,” Starmer stated.
France, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates are among the countries participating in the discussions, according to a statement from the British government.
A British official indicated that an initial phase will focus on demining, followed by a second phase to protect tankers crossing the area.
