US-Iran talks ending without deal disappointing, Streeting says
US-Iran Negotiations Collapse Without Agreement, UK Official Expresses Disappointment
Wes Streeting, the UK’s Health Secretary, voiced concern over the breakdown of initial discussions between the United States and Iran to conclude the ongoing conflict, stating the situation was “disappointing.” The talks, which took place in Pakistan, ended without a resolution early on Sunday, leaving the UK government’s stance unchanged as it refrains from entering the war.
Streeting emphasized that the UK, despite not participating in the negotiations, supports a diplomatic resolution that would “address Iran’s nuclear aspirations.” He defended Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to avoid committing the nation to US-Israeli military actions against Iran, calling it “the right choice.” The two-week ceasefire between the two nations now appears precarious following the failure to reach a formal agreement.
“It’s obviously disappointing that the talks have broken down for now,” Streeting noted on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme. “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.”
US Vice-President JD Vance, who led the negotiations in Pakistan, cited Iran’s refusal to pledge against nuclear weapon development as the primary obstacle to a deal. Streeting also critiqued President Trump’s warning last week that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” unless Iran accepted a peace plan, calling it “outrageous” and “extraordinary.”
Streeting added that the UK should assess Trump’s actions rather than his rhetoric, particularly on social media. “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, and what he does,” he remarked.
Differences over the Iran conflict and broader international matters have tested the UK-US relationship. Earlier this week, Sir Keir Starmer criticized leaders like Putin and Trump for driving up national costs through their policies. Streeting clarified that Starmer’s comments were deliberate, ensuring he wouldn’t make hasty statements on global affairs.
Starmer has engaged with Trump to address the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for oil and gas. The UK plans to host upcoming talks with a coalition of nations to reopen the strait, continuing its efforts to secure maritime access in the region.
