Sir Keir Starmer told the Commons he stood by his decision and warned that his party had ‘learnt the lessons of Iraq’

Donald Trump has publicly rebuked Sir Keir Starmer, declaring the UK-US alliance is “not what it was” after Downing Street initially refused to let American forces use British bases in strikes on Iran.

The extraordinary intervention lays bare the sharpest rupture yet between the two leaders, with tensions flaring over legality, loyalty and Britain’s role in a widening Middle East conflict.

‘Very Disappointed’: Trump Turns on No 10

Speaking to The Sun, Trump said he was “very disappointed” that Sir Keir delayed granting access to the UK-US base on Diego Garcia in the Chagos Islands. It “took far too long” to secure approval, he said.

“He has not been helpful. I never thought I’d see that from the UK,” Trump added. “It’s very sad to see that the relationship is obviously not what it was.”

The president suggested Britain’s support was ultimately unnecessary. “It’s not going to matter, but he should have helped.”

Starmer Stands Firm — and Invokes Iraq

Sir Keir confirmed the US may now use Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford for defensive operations. But he drew a red line under the initial strikes, telling MPs they did not meet the legal threshold he had set.

“We all remember the mistakes of Iraq,” he said, pointedly referencing Tony Blair’s support for the 2003 invasion. “Any UK actions must always have a lawful basis.”

Chief Secretary Darren Jones insisted decisions were taken “on the basis of legality and British interest”, not White House pressure.

Iran Escalates as Pressure Mounts

The row erupted as Trump warned the “biggest wave” of attacks on Iran was still to come. An Iranian drone targeted RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus hours after Britain’s announcement, underscoring the stakes.

Sir Keir said the UK was “not at war” and would not join offensive action. But with around 300,000 Britons in the region, contingency plans — including possible evacuations — are under way.

Political Faultlines Widen

Labour MPs rallied behind the prime minister’s emphasis on international law. The Conservatives and Reform UK accused him of dithering and demanded clarity over whose side Britain is on.

For now, the transatlantic alliance holds. But the strain is no longer private — and the fallout is playing out in full view.

Trump lambasts Starmer and says relationship is 'not what it was'

Trump has only got himself to blame he's turned the whole world against the US he's flushing the US down the drain.