Starmer will not be swayed by Trump’s ‘small and petty’ insults, says Lammy

David Lammy, the UK’s deputy prime minister, has dismissed Donald Trump’s insults towards Prime Minister Keir Starmer as “small and petty” attempts to pressure the UK into changing its stance on the conflict in Iran. Speaking at a global progressives conference in Barcelona, Lammy emphasized that the UK will not become involved in the Iran conflict despite Trump’s social media attacks. He criticized the US president’s approach, suggesting that allies should “disagree agreeably” rather than resorting to public barbs, and highlighted that US actions have exacerbated global instability rather than improving it. The UK’s relationship with the United States has become increasingly strained amid the ongoing conflict, with Starmer facing criticism and mockery over his handling of the situation. Starmer has expressed frustration over the impact of US actions on British energy prices, while Chancellor Rachel Reeves has called the conflict a “mistake” that is damaging the global economy. In an effort to ease tensions and underscore the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz—a vital shipping route for global oil and goods—Lammy recently traveled to Washington to meet with US officials, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Lammy conveyed confidence that US politicians are aware of the economic consequences of the conflict, especially with midterm elections approaching. He noted that the ongoing war, combined with the war in Ukraine and the pandemic, has worsened economic conditions worldwide. Trump announced plans for US negotiators to resume peace talks in Pakistan but warned that the US would target Iranian power plants if a deal is not reached. Lammy stressed that the priority should be ending the conflict swiftly to alleviate its economic and humanitarian toll, reaffirming the UK’s position that it will not be drawn into the war.