In a rare public display of policy divergence, the leaders of the United States and the United Kingdom openly acknowledged their disagreement on the path to Middle East peace. President Donald Trump, on a state visit, confirmed he does not support Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s intention to recognize Palestine.
Such public acknowledgements of differing views between a US President and a UK Prime Minister are uncommon, given the “special relationship” that prizes a united front. Trump sought to minimize the rift, characterizing it as “one of our few disagreements,” but its existence on such a high-profile issue is significant.
The UK’s policy, which Starmer defended as part of a package to ensure a “safe and secure Israel,” represents a significant break from the US approach. To smooth things over, the implementation of this policy is reportedly being paused until after Trump’s visit, a classic diplomatic maneuver to avoid conflict.
Prime Minister Starmer also focused on their aligned interests, such as the shared belief that the Gaza situation is “intolerable” and requires a “road map” to peace. The entire episode offers a candid glimpse into the complexities of maintaining close alliances when national strategies diverge.