Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has emphasized the resilience of the special relationship between the UK and the US, despite President Donald Trump’s ongoing criticisms of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Lammy highlighted that while Trump’s comments may be aimed at pressuring the Prime Minister regarding the Iran conflict, they do not diminish the strong ties between the two countries.
In response to Trump’s recent attacks on the UK and threats to revoke the US-UK trade deal, Lammy, a former Foreign Secretary, dismissed suggestions that the relationship was severely strained. He stressed the significant military cooperation, intelligence sharing, economic investments, and people-to-people connections that underpin the special relationship.
During his visit to the Gulf, Lammy expressed confidence in the British public’s ability to discern the motives behind Trump’s rhetoric, acknowledging the President’s attempts to influence UK policy on Iran. He affirmed that the UK would not alter its stance, asserting that the conflict was not theirs to fight.
Regarding his discussions with US Vice President JD Vance, Lammy highlighted their focus on the situation in Islamabad and efforts to reach a ceasefire. They also addressed broader geopolitical issues, including the conflict in Ukraine and the implications of the Iran crisis on European warfare.
Lammy underscored the importance of maintaining pressure on Russia amid the Iran crisis, as Russia seeks to capitalize on the situation. He noted Vance’s understanding of these issues and shared commitment to ending ongoing conflicts.
During his visits to Oman and Kuwait, Lammy met with allies affected by Iran’s retaliatory actions and engaged with military personnel, including RAF members involved in drone defense operations.
As Keir Starmer prepares to co-host a summit in France on reopening the Strait of Hormuz post-Iran conflict, Lammy’s engagements underscore the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address regional tensions and ensure global energy and trade flow unimpeded.