LONDON, U.K. — A diplomatic dispute intensified Saturday after President Donald Trump criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the United Kingdom’s role in military operations connected to the escalating conflict with Iran. Trump posted on Truth Social that Britain was “finally giving serious thought to sending two aircraft carriers” to the Middle East but suggested the move came too late to influence the conflict.
“The United Kingdom, our once Great Ally… is finally giving serious thought to sending two aircraft carriers,” Trump wrote, adding: “That’s OK, Prime Minister Starmer, we don’t need them any longer… We don’t need people that join wars after we’ve already won.”
The remarks came as U.S. bomber aircraft arrived at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire to prepare for missions targeting Iranian missile infrastructure. According to reporting by the Evening Standard, a 146-foot B-1 Lancer bomber landed Friday evening, followed by three additional aircraft early Saturday.
British officials pushed back against Trump’s criticism. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said the government would respond calmly and focus on practical cooperation rather than rhetoric. Speaking to Sky News, Cooper emphasized the close intelligence-sharing relationship between Washington and London and said Britain was making decisions based on national security interests.
The UK government has authorized the use of RAF Fairford and the U.S. base at Diego Garcia for defensive operations against Iranian missile sites threatening allied forces in the Gulf region. British forces have also increased readiness, including preparing the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales and deploying additional Typhoon jets to the Gulf.
Domestically, the conflict has triggered political divisions. Former Prime Minister Tony Blair urged stronger support for U.S. action, while opposition figures criticized the government’s approach and protesters gathered outside the U.S. Embassy in London.
Sources
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
