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Trump threat to Iranian civilians ‘wrong’, Starmer says

Lisa Smith April 13, 2026

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Trump Threat to Iranian Civilians ‘Wrong,’ Starmer Says

Sir Keir Starmer criticized Donald Trump for his claim that an entire “civilisation” would perish if Iran didn’t cease its military actions. The UK leader stated he would not have used such extreme language, emphasizing that a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran had already been reached. This remark followed Starmer’s confirmation that the UK would not support the US military blockade of Iranian ports, which was set to begin at 15:00 BST.

UK’s Focus on Hormuz Reopening

During a Commons address, Starmer highlighted the UK’s commitment to staying neutral in the conflict and its efforts to ensure the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route, remains open. The US and Iran had agreed to a conditional pause in hostilities hours after Trump’s warning, but tensions persist as Israel continues its strikes in Lebanon and Iran maintains restrictions on maritime access.

In relation to the language about destroying a civilisation… that was wrong. A threat to Iranian civilians in that way is wrong. These are civilians, let’s remember, who have suffered immeasurable harm by the regime in Iran for many, many long years.

Deputies’ Diplomatic Role

Despite Starmer’s public disagreement with Trump, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy engaged in meetings at the White House with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Lammy later shared on X, noting the importance of sustaining the ceasefire and restoring free flow through the Strait of Hormuz. He also mentioned collaboration on achieving lasting peace in Ukraine.

Reactions from Opposition Leaders

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey pointed out that while Trump did not act on his threat, the words themselves underscored the president’s tendency toward recklessness and disregard for international norms. Davey warned that the blockade could worsen the crisis, threatening the fragile ceasefire. Starmer, however, defended the UK’s stance, stressing the need to protect civilians and uphold democratic values.

Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch praised the diplomatic efforts but urged more concrete actions. She called for the release of the delayed defence investment plan and approval of oil and gas drilling in the North Sea to reduce the UK’s reliance on volatile energy markets.

Strait of Hormuz’s Strategic Significance

Iran controls approximately 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments via the Strait of Hormuz. Since US-Israeli strikes began on 28 February, Tehran has imposed limits on maritime traffic, cutting off the waterway. While some vessels have been permitted passage, the US blockade aims to prevent Iran from profiting from tolls and oil exports. This has contributed to a rise in oil prices, affecting energy costs worldwide.