US-Iran talks ending without deal disappointing, Streeting says
US-Iran talks ending without deal disappointing, Streeting says
Health Secretary Wes Streeting expressed disappointment over the collapse of preliminary discussions aimed at concluding the Iran-US conflict, while affirming the UK’s stance of not engaging in the war. The negotiations, which took place in Pakistan, concluded without consensus on Sunday morning. Streeting emphasized that the UK, not participating in the talks, supports a peaceful resolution to the conflict that would curb Iran’s nuclear aspirations.
UK’s diplomatic approach
Streeting praised Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to keep the UK out of US-Israeli military operations against Iran. He noted the two-week ceasefire between the nations is now in doubt after the talks failed. US Vice President JD Vance, who led the negotiations, attributed the stalemate to Iran’s unwillingness to pledge a nuclear weapons program.
“It’s obviously disappointing that the talks have broken down for now,” Streeting remarked during the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme. “But the optimist in me says two things; first, the fact that Americans and Iranians sat down together is unusual and essential. Second, every day ends in failure until success is achieved.”
Trump’s rhetoric and actions
Streeting criticized President Trump’s recent warning that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” if Iran didn’t agree to a deal. However, he argued that Trump’s actions, rather than his words, should be the focus of evaluation. “You have to distinguish between what he says and how he says it, especially on social media, and what he does,” he explained.
The UK-US relationship has faced tension due to disagreements over the Iran conflict and other global matters. Earlier this week, Sir Keir Starmer criticized the impact of leaders like Putin and Trump on domestic costs, though Streeting clarified that his comments were measured and not impulsive. Starmer has discussed the need for a strategy to clear the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage blocked by Iran during the crisis.
Next week, the UK will host additional meetings to revive the Strait of Hormuz as a key trade route, collaborating with other nations. This effort marks the government’s ongoing commitment to securing open navigation for oil and gas shipments through the region.
