British Prime Minister Keir Starmer says the ongoing war in Iran highlights the need for the UK to work more closely with European partners on security and economic matters.
His remarks come after repeated criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump over Britain’s cautious stance in the conflict.
Starmer warned that the fallout from the war could have a lasting impact on the UK, saying it could “define us for a generation,” similar to the energy price shocks of the 1970s.
Starmer announced plans for an upcoming summit with the European Union, aiming to mend some of the “deep damage” caused by Brexit and strengthen long-term cooperation.
“It is increasingly clear that our national interest requires closer partnership with our allies in Europe,” Starmer said at a Downing Street press conference.
Trump recently criticized Britain and other European nations for not joining the U.S. and Israel’s war operations in Iran.
He warned that the U.S. “won’t be there to help you anymore” and told allies to “start learning how to fight for yourself.”
Starmer stressed that the UK remains a close ally of the United States but said he would act in Britain’s national interest regardless of external pressure.
While Starmer did not announce new policies to ease soaring energy costs at home, he confirmed that Britain will host diplomatic meetings this week to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route.
British Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper will lead talks with 35 countries exploring ways to restore safe passage through the waterway.
Starmer acknowledged that progress would take time and depend on broader de-escalation in the region.
