WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has threatened to terminate the trade agreement with the United Kingdom UK after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer refused to bow to American pressure over joining a potential conflict with Iran.
In an interview with a US television network, President Trump issued the warning, expressing frustration over London’s unwillingness to align with Washington’s foreign policy objectives in the Middle East.
However, the British Prime Minister flatly rejected the ultimatum, stating that he would not change his decision. Speaking from Downing Street, Starmer made it clear that joining a war against Iran is not in the United Kingdom’s national interest. He further emphasized that Britain would not compromise on its foreign policy under any form of external pressure, including economic threats.
“We value our relationship with the United States, but Britain’s foreign policy decisions will be made in Britain’s interest alone,” a senior government source quoted the Prime Minister as saying.
President Trump’s threat to scrap the US-UK trade agreement marks a significant low in the long-standing transatlantic alliance, often described as a “special relationship.” The UK has historically been one of America’s closest allies, but diverging stances on Iran have now brought tensions to the forefront.
Neither the White House nor Downing Street has confirmed whether any formal notification regarding the trade deal has been issued. However, political analysts warn that such a move could have serious economic consequences for both nations.
The UK government has reiterated its commitment to diplomacy and de-escalation in the Gulf region, while the Trump administration continues to advocate for a more aggressive stance against Tehran.
