Arabic version: ترامب يعلن أن الولايات المتحدة مكتفية ذاتياً في الصراع في الشرق الأوسط

President Donald Trump has stated on social media that the United States does not require the United Kingdom to deploy aircraft carriers to the Middle East. This statement was made following an announcement from the UK’s Ministry of Defence indicating that one of its flagship aircraft carriers, the HMS Prince of Wales, is on “high readiness” for potential deployment.

According to Al Jazeera, Trump referred to the UK as a “once great ally” in his post, which signals a growing rift between the two nations since his return to office last year. This division has intensified over the past week as the US and Israel continue their military actions against Iran, which commenced on February 28.

The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with reports indicating that an estimated 1,332 people have died in Iran and the US confirming the deaths of six service members. The UK government has increased its involvement in the war, allowing the US to utilize its military bases for what it describes as “limited defensive purposes.” However, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has faced domestic criticism regarding the UK’s role in the conflict.

Starmer has reiterated that the UK will not join the offensive strikes led by the US and Israel, emphasizing the need to protect British interests and lives. Recent polling shows that the war is largely unpopular in the UK, with a majority of respondents supporting Starmer’s initial decision to deny the US access to UK bases.

Trump’s criticism of Starmer has escalated, further straining relations between the two countries. He has expressed discontent with the UK leader, contrasting him unfavorably with Winston Churchill. The Trump administration appears to be shifting its focus away from traditional European allies towards nations that align more closely with its political agenda.