Trump threat to Iranian civilians ‘wrong’, Starmer says

Starmer Condemns Trump’s Threat to Iranian Civilians as ‘Incorrect’

Sir Keir Starmer has criticized Donald Trump for labeling a “whole civilisation” as a target in his warning to Iran, calling the phrasing “wrong.” The UK leader addressed Parliament, stating that he would not have employed such language had a two-week ceasefire been finalized earlier. This remark follows Starmer’s confirmation that the UK would not participate in the U.S. military effort to block Iranian ports, which was set to begin at 3:00 PM BST.

Strait of Hormuz and Ongoing Tensions

Despite the temporary pause in hostilities, Israel continues its bombing campaign in Lebanon, and Iran remains in control of restricting access to the critical waterway of the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. and Iran reached a conditional agreement on a two-week ceasefire after weekend talks failed to yield a deal, prompting Trump to declare a blockade on all ships entering or exiting the strait. On Monday, the U.S. president warned that Iranian naval vessels approaching the blockade would be “immediately eliminated.”

“The language about destroying a civilisation… that was wrong. A threat to Iranian civilians in that way is wrong.”

Starmer emphasized the human cost of the conflict, noting that Iranian civilians have endured significant suffering under the regime’s policies over many years. He stated that such words would not be used by his government, which operates under principles and values guiding its actions. Meanwhile, the UK and France plan to host a summit aimed at diplomatic solutions to the crisis and stabilizing the Strait of Hormuz for maritime traffic.

Behind-the-Scenes Diplomacy

As public tensions between Starmer and Trump escalate, the relationship between their deputies is viewed as crucial for maintaining UK-U.S. cooperation. David Lammy, the Deputy Prime Minister, met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the White House, underscoring the importance of continued dialogue. Lammy shared on X: “Great to catch up with my friend JD Vance today in DC following his talks in Pakistan.”

He added that the goal remains ensuring the ceasefire holds and restoring free flow of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, while also supporting efforts for a lasting peace in Ukraine. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey echoed concerns, stating Trump’s threat, though not executed, highlights the president’s “reckless, immoral, and completely outside the bounds of international law” approach. Davey warned that the blockade could “escalate this crisis and jeopardise the precarious ceasefire.”

Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch praised the UK’s diplomatic initiative but urged more decisive action. She called for the release of the delayed defence investment plan and approval of North Sea oil and gas drilling to reduce the nation’s vulnerability to energy price fluctuations.

Global Implications of the Conflict

Approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments traverse the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively controlled since U.S.-Israeli strikes began on 28 February. While some vessels have been allowed through, the U.S. blockade seeks to cut off Tehran’s revenue from tolls and oil exports. The ongoing conflict has already driven up oil prices, affecting energy costs worldwide.