Trump rebukes Starmer again for not letting US attack Iran from UK bases

The Guardian - World NewsEN 4 min read 100% complete by Pippa Crerar and Jessica ElgotMarch 3, 2026 at 09:17 PM

AI Summary

medium article 4 min

US President Donald Trump has criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for refusing to allow initial strikes against Iran from British bases. This is the third time in 24 hours that Trump has made such a comment, highlighting his frustration with western allies not supporting the action. The UK eventually agreed to let the US use Diego Garcia for strikes on Iranian missile facilities. Starmer defended his decision, saying it was based on Britain's national interest and that he stands by it. Trump also criticized Spain after Madrid prohibited the US from using its territory for attacks on Iran. The criticism comes as European countries struggle to find a united position on the Middle East events.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Germany 30% Friedrich Merz 35% Spain 35% Emily Thornberry 40% Diego Garcia ×360% Iran ×470% United Kingdom ×675% United States ×780% Keir Starmer ×585% Donald Trump ×790%

Keywords

us-iran conflict 90% donald trump 80% uk bases 80% military strikes 70% keir starmer 70% us foreign policy 60% diego garcia 60% international relations 50% uk foreign policy 50% regime change 40%