Trump threat to Iranian civilians ‘wrong’, Starmer says
Trump’s Warning Against Iranian Civilians ‘Incorrect,’ Starmer Asserts
Sir Keir Starmer has condemned Donald Trump’s assertion that a “whole civilisation” would face annihilation unless Iran halted the war. The UK prime minister clarified during a Commons address that he would not have employed such language had a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran been secured. This comes as the UK opted not to support the US military action targeting Iranian ports, which was scheduled to commence at 15:00 BST.
UK’s Commitment to Neutral Stance
Starmer emphasized the UK’s determination to remain detached from the conflict, focusing instead on restoring the Strait of Hormuz as a key shipping passage. Shortly after Trump’s threat, the US and Iran agreed to a temporary ceasefire, though hostilities in Lebanon persisted, and Iran continued to limit maritime access through the strait.
“The language about destroying a civilisation… that was wrong,” Starmer stated, adding that such rhetoric against Iranian civilians was unacceptable. “These are civilians who have endured immense suffering under the Iranian regime for years. Words like that I would never use for this government, which upholds our values and principles.”
Leadership Dynamics Amid Tensions
Despite public friction between Starmer and Trump, UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy maintained a meeting in the White House with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Lammy, who previously hosted Vance during a UK holiday, described the encounter as a “great catch-up” and underscored the need for continued ceasefire efforts and stable shipping routes through Hormuz.
Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey criticized Trump’s threat, calling it “a stark reminder of how reckless, immoral, and beyond international law this president is.” He argued the blockade would “escalate the crisis and risk the fragile ceasefire.” Starmer countered that the US president’s choice of words was misleading, highlighting the humanitarian impact of the conflict.
Global Implications of the Strait Blockade
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global trade, has seen one-fifth of oil and liquefied natural gas shipments disrupted since US-Israeli strikes began on February 28. While Iran allowed some vessels to pass, the US blockade aims to cut off Tehran’s revenue from tolls and oil exports. This has already driven up oil prices, causing worldwide energy costs to rise.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch praised the UK’s diplomatic approach but urged more concrete action. She advocated for publishing the delayed defence investment plan and approving North Sea oil and gas drilling to reduce energy price volatility. As the UK and France prepare a summit to address the crisis, the focus remains on balancing diplomacy with strategic preparedness.
