According to Downing Street, the call focused on the evolving situation in the Middle East and ongoing military cooperation between the two allies.
The discussion came less than 24 hours after Trump publicly suggested the United States did not need British support in the conflict.
Writing on his social media platform Truth Social, the US president said:
“We don’t need people that join wars after we’ve already won.”
Despite the criticism, Trump also described Britain as “our once great ally, maybe the greatest of them all”.
Downing Street Highlights Military Cooperation
A Downing Street spokeswoman said the leaders discussed the use of British military facilities in support of allies in the region.
“The leaders began by discussing the latest situation in the Middle East and the military co-operation between the UK and US through the use of RAF bases in support of the collective self-defence of partners in the region,” the spokeswoman said.
Starmer also expressed condolences following the deaths of six American soldiers during the conflict.
“The prime minister shared his heartfelt condolences with President Trump and the American people,” she added.
Growing Political Pressure in the UK
The disagreement has sparked debate within British politics about the strength of the UK–US alliance.
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, said he saw little chance of relations improving between the two leaders.
Speaking after meeting Trump at Mar-a-Lago in Florida, Farage said:
“I see very little prospect of the relationship between Trump and Starmer improving.”
He also criticised the UK government’s push for a diplomatic solution with Iran.
Conservatives Accuse Starmer of Weakening Alliance
Meanwhile, Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, accused the prime minister of damaging the long-standing “special relationship” between the UK and the US.
Philp claimed the government had previously refused a request allowing American aircraft to use British military bases, including RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia.
He told Times Radio the decision had undermined cooperation between the two countries.
Blair Weighs Into Debate
Former prime minister Tony Blair also intervened, arguing that Britain should have supported the United States earlier in the conflict.
Speaking at an event organised by Jewish News, Blair said the UK should have allowed the use of its bases to assist American operations.
“This American relationship matters,” he said. “If they’re your ally and a cornerstone of your security, you need to show up.”
Government Defends Independent Approach
However, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper defended the government’s position, saying Britain must act based on its own national interests.
Speaking to BBC, she said the UK needed to reflect on the lessons of the Iraq War when making decisions about military involvement.
“I do understand there are people who think we should just unquestioningly agree with the US,” Cooper said. “But that is not always in the UK’s national interest.”
The exchange highlights growing pressure on Starmer as he attempts to maintain close relations with Washington while balancing domestic political concerns over military involvement abroad.
