Keir Starmer is set to engage with MPs at PMQs today following criticism from Donald Trump amid escalating tensions with Iran. The US President rebuked the PM, stating he is not comparable to Winston Churchill, following the initial refusal to allow American planes to conduct strikes on Tehran from British bases.
Later on Sunday, Mr. Starmer agreed to permit the use of British military bases for “defensive” strikes on Iranian missile sites to safeguard nations under threat by Iran. While he has not directly responded to Trump’s latest remarks, the Middle East conflict is expected to take center stage during PMQs at noon.
In an outburst from the Oval Office, Trump targeted Sadiq Khan and alleged the existence of “Sharia courts” in the UK, criticizing Britain for being uncooperative regarding Iran. Specifically singling out London’s Labour Mayor, he described Khan as incompetent and referenced Sharia Courts.
Contrary to Trump’s claims, the UK does not have official ‘Sharia courts.’ Some Muslim groups operate sharia councils, which, like Ecclesiastical Courts in the Church of England and Canon Law Tribunals in the Catholic Church, lack legal authority. Similarly, Judaism, Hinduism, and Sikhism also have voluntary arbitration tribunals akin to Sharia councils.
A warning from a think tank highlights that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East poses a threat to the improvement of living standards for low-income households in the UK. The Resolution Foundation’s analysis of the Spring Statement indicates a projected rise in living standards this year, but potential energy price hikes due to Middle East turmoil could impact this growth.
Although Chancellor Rachel Reeves did not introduce new policies in her recent announcement, she emphasized the importance of her fiscal strategy amidst global uncertainty exacerbated by the Iran conflict. The Office for Budget Responsibility revised its GDP forecast, predicting a 1.1% increase in 2026 compared to the previous estimate of 1.4% in November. Forecasts for 2027 and 2028 were adjusted from 1.5% to 1.6%.
Trump continued his criticism of Keir Starmer, dismissing him as unlike Winston Churchill during a recent Oval Office Q&A session. The US President expressed dissatisfaction with the UK and referenced an unspecified island lease issue, questioning the decision-making process. Starmer or Downing Street has not issued a response to Trump’s remarks.