US-Iran talks ending without deal disappointing, Streeting says
US-Iran Talks Ending Without Deal Disappointing, Streeting Says
Health Secretary Wes Streeting expressed regret over the collapse of initial negotiations to conclude the Iran conflict, which took place in Pakistan. The talks, which lasted through the early hours of Sunday, failed to produce an agreement, leaving the UK uninvolved in the direct military confrontation. Streeting emphasized the UK’s commitment to a diplomatic resolution that would “address Iran’s nuclear aspirations.” He defended Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to avoid aligning with US-Israeli strikes, calling it a “wise choice” to maintain neutrality.
The two-week ceasefire between Iran and the US now seems precarious after the talks ended without consensus. US Vice President JD Vance participated in the discussions and attributed the failure to Iran’s reluctance to pledge against developing nuclear weapons. During an appearance on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme, Streeting remarked:
“It’s obviously disappointing that the talks have broken down for now. 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 recent warning that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” unless Iran accepted a deal. He called the threat “outrageous” and “extraordinary,” but urged evaluating Trump’s actions over his rhetoric. “If there’s one thing we’ve learned about President Trump, particularly in this term, it also applies to his first term—you have to draw a distinction between what he says and how he says it, especially on social media, and what he does,” he stated.
Strained ties between the UK and the US have emerged due to disagreements over the Iran war and other global matters. Earlier this week, Sir Keir noted frustration with rising costs linked to actions by leaders like Putin or Trump. Streeting clarified that Sir Keir would not act impulsively in addressing international issues. The prime minister has already discussed the need for a plan to secure passage through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively blocked during the conflict. This week, the UK will host additional meetings to reopen the critical shipping route with a coalition of nations, continuing efforts to ensure freedom of navigation for oil and gas trade.
