Trump and Starmer Discuss Military Cooperation Amid Iran Tensions
ISTANBUL — US President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer held a phone call on Sunday to discuss military cooperation, including the use of Royal Air Force (RAF) bases to support the collective defense of regional partners.
Starmer also expressed condolences over the deaths of six US service members, according to a statement from his office. “They looked forward to speaking again soon,” the statement added. The White House has not released an official statement regarding the call.
Dispute Over UK Involvement
The conversation occurred amid a public dispute between the leaders. Trump criticized Starmer for initially refusing to support US-led strikes on Iran, suggesting Britain’s later involvement was unnecessary. “We don’t need people that join wars after we’ve already won,” Trump said.
Despite the criticism, Downing Street approved limited use of British airbases for defensive operations. RAF jets have been deployed to intercept Iranian missiles and drones targeting regional allies.
UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized that Britain will not outsource its foreign policy decisions, pushing back against Trump’s remarks.
Escalating Conflict
The joint US-Israeli attacks on Iran, launched last Saturday, have entered their ninth day. Iranian authorities report more than 1,200 deaths, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
In response, Tehran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, escalating regional tensions.
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