Daily Politics from the New Statesman Starmer and Trump's relationship at an all time low
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Mar 9, 2026 Freddie Hayward, US correspondent covering transatlantic relations and inside US foreign policy, breaks down UK–US tensions after American strikes on Iran. He discusses British bases’ role in operations. He outlines Starmer’s diplomatic playbook and the multiple layers of UK foreign policy. He also explores back‑channel influence from figures like Nigel Farage and what Trump-era politics mean for Britain’s relevance.
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Routine Military Cooperation Continues Despite Leader Rift
- The public fallout between Keir Starmer and Donald Trump masks ongoing routine military cooperation.
- Freddie Hayward reports US planes using British bases, shared targeting and intelligence despite personal breakdown between leaders.
Starmer Uses International Law As Political Shield
- Keir Starmer framed the UK's response around international law rather than an ideological break with the US.
- Freddie argues Starmer used legal timing to distance politically from a deeply unpopular war while still preserving eventual cooperation.
Distance Politically From Unpopular Wars
- Do politically distance your government from unpopular foreign wars to protect domestic standing.
- Anoush and Hayward highlight Starmer's delay and rhetorical shift as a correct political calculation given cost of living worries.