ENGLAND – US President Donald Trump acknowledged a rare policy disagreement with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday, stating that he opposes the UK’s move to formally recognise a Palestinian state. Speaking during a joint press conference after their bilateral meeting at Chequers, Trump said, “I have a disagreement with the prime minister on that score, one of our few disagreements, actually.”
Prime Minister Starmer reiterated that he and Trump were united in seeking peace in the Middle East, despite differences on timing and recognition. “We absolutely agree on the need for peace and a road map, because the situation in Gaza is intolerable,” Starmer noted.
Responding to speculation that the recognition might come after Trump’s departure from Britain this weekend, Starmer dismissed any political calculus. “I made my position clear at the end of July as to the timing, which has got nothing to do with this state visit,” he said. He emphasized that the matter had been discussed openly with Trump, highlighting their mutual respect and shared commitment to finding a better solution for lasting peace.