US-Iran talks ending without deal disappointing, Streeting says
US-Iran talks ending without deal disappointing, Streeting says
UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting expressed regret that initial discussions to conclude the Iran conflict collapsed without a final agreement, while backing the nation’s choice to remain neutral in the ongoing war. The US and Iran had been engaged in negotiations in Pakistan, which concluded without resolution on Sunday morning. Streeting highlighted the UK’s preference for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, aiming to curb Iran’s nuclear development ambitions.
The two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran is now seen as unstable following the breakdown of talks. US Vice-President JD Vance participated in the discussions, attributing the failure to Iran’s reluctance to pledge against nuclear weapon production. On the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg show, Streeting noted the disappointment but emphasized the importance of the dialogue itself.
“It’s obviously disappointing that the talks have broken down for now,” Streeting remarked. “But the optimist in me says two things; firstly, the mere fact that the Americans and the Iranians were able to get around the table together is highly unusual and necessary. It’s the only way we’re going to end this war. Secondly, the nature of diplomacy is that every day ends in failure until you achieve success. So I don’t think we should be too surprised or disheartened.”
Streeting also criticized President Trump’s warning that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” unless Iran agreed to a deal, calling it “outrageous” and “extraordinary.” However, he stressed the need to evaluate Trump’s actions rather than his rhetoric, particularly his social media statements. “If there’s one thing we’ve learned about President Trump, particularly in this term, it also applies to his first term,” he said. “You have to draw a distinction between what he says and how he says it, particularly on social media, and what he does.”
Strained UK-US Relations
Differences over the Iran conflict and other global matters have affected the UK and US relationship. Earlier this week, Sir Keir Starmer mentioned his frustration with how families face fluctuating costs due to actions by leaders like Putin or Trump. Streeting clarified that Starmer would not make impulsive remarks on international affairs, emphasizing a measured approach.
Starmer has discussed the need for a plan to secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blocked during the conflict. The UK will soon host further talks with a group of nations to reopen this critical waterway. The meetings aim to rebuild freedom of passage for oil and gas shipments, continuing the government’s efforts to stabilize the region.
