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Health Secretary Wes Streeting expressed disappointment after initial negotiations aimed at ending the conflict in Iran concluded without a deal. The discussions between the US and Iran, held in Pakistan, ended in the early hours of Sunday without agreement. Streeting emphasized that although the UK was not a participant in these talks, it hoped for a resolution that would firmly halt Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Streeting defended the UK government’s decision, led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, not to become involved in any US-Israeli military actions against Iran. He described Starmer’s stance as “the right choice,” particularly in light of the fragile two-week ceasefire currently in place between Iran and the US. The breakdown in talks was attributed primarily to Iran’s refusal to promise not to develop a nuclear weapon, according to US Vice-President JD Vance, who attended the negotiations.
On the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme, Streeting acknowledged the setback but urged patience and optimism. He highlighted the significance of having both sides come together at the negotiating table as a critical step towards an eventual peace. Streeting remarked, “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.” Earlier, he had criticized President Trump’s recent threatening statements towards Iran as “outrageous” and “extraordinary,” while also stressing the importance of separating Trump’s rhetoric from his actual actions.
In other diplomatic developments, Sir Keir Starmer spoke with the Sultan of Oman, with both leaders encouraging all parties involved—the US, Israel, and Iran—to avoid further escalation. This conversation came amidst growing strain in UK-US relations over differing views on the Iran conflict and other global matters. The UK is also taking steps to address disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iranian forces have effectively blocked vital shipping routes. Upcoming talks hosted by the UK will focus on restoring the free passage of oil and gas shipments through this corridor. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is engaged in ongoing discussions with regional and international partners about the situation, though Streeting declined to comment on whether Royal Navy vessels might be deployed to escort ships in the strait at this stage.
On a separate topic, Streeting addressed recent reports concerning the UK’s agreement to transfer control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. The islands, long under British control, are home to a UK-US military base, and the deal was complicated by the US not providing formal approval. Streeting denied claims that the UK had reversed its position, attributing the delay to changes within the US administration, and said efforts were underway to resolve the outstanding issues.
Finally, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey spoke out about rising food prices, partly driven by the Iran conflict. He warned that inflation in food costs would significantly impact the UK later in the year and called for urgent measures to improve food security. The Liberal Democrats advocate for legislation requiring the government to prioritize food security, alongside a proposed £1 billion boost to farming budgets to support domestic food production. Sir Ed stressed the importance of properly supporting farmers, stating, “Unless you support farmers properly, you can’t expect them to increase production.
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