President Donald Trump has criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for refusing to support U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, saying the “relationship is obviously not what it was.”

Starmer defended his stance, emphasizing that the UK would only allow bases to be used for defensive purposes to protect allies, citing lessons learned from Iraq and the need for lawful, well-planned actions.

Trump compared Starmer unfavorably to France and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, urging the UK to change course on multiple issues including the Chagos Islands, North Sea energy, and immigration.

The UK continues to provide limited support, permitting RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia for potential operations while actively defending coalition forces from Iranian strikes, The Guardian has reported.

Starmer reiterated that British forces will not engage offensively without clear national interest and legal justification.