The Daily T Trump attacks weak Starmer over Iran dither and delay
7 snips
Mar 2, 2026 
Sir Richard Dearlove, former head of MI6, offers sharp strategic and operational perspective from his intelligence career. He discusses UK consultation over US strikes, the Diego Garcia controversy, timing and planning of the operation, whether the US seeks regime change or a more compliant leadership, and the regional tactical aftermath and terrorism risks.
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Rapid Decapitation Changed The Campaign
- Donald Trump claimed the operation removed much of Iran's leadership on day one, changing expectations of a protracted campaign.
- Hosts note the speed and scale of strikes, with the Ayatollah reportedly killed in the first wave and most top team eliminated, marking a historic moment.
Diego Garcia Row Sparked A Policy U-Turn
- The UK initially refused US use of Diego Garcia and other bases, causing diplomatic friction and later rapid policy reversal.
- Camilla reports a weekend wrangle where ministers struggled on-air before Keir Starmer approved limited US use for defensive purposes.
Dearlove Says UK Was Caught On The Back Foot
- Sir Richard Dearlove recounts being surprised by limited UK briefing and suggests the operation was planned primarily by US and Israeli military leaders.
- He says the UK was 'caught on the back foot' and had little prior knowledge of timing, implying hurried date selection.