"The Liberal Democrats want Sir Keir Starmer to prevent the King visiting the United States next month over Donald Trump's criticism of the British response on Iran. The monarch and Queen Camilla are set to meet the US president for a state visit at the end of April. But Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey said the visit should not go ahead, as it would hand a "huge diplomatic coup" to Trump during US-Israeli strikes on Iran."
"The conflict has strained transatlantic ties, after Sir Keir initially refused to allow American planes to use British bases to launch bombing raids on the country. The UK has since authorised the US to use its bases to launch "defensive" strikes on missile sites in Iran used to launch retaliatory attacks, whilst RAF planes have also been sent to intercept Iranian drones and missiles."
"But it has prompted criticism from the US president, who branded Sir Keir "no Winston Churchill" last week, and accused him on Saturday of wanting to "join wars after we've already won". The two leaders spoke on Sunday for the first time since the row escalated, although Downing Street has released only limited details of the call."
The Liberal Democrats are calling for the King and Queen Camilla's planned state visit to the United States in late April to be postponed. This request stems from tensions between the UK and US over the Iran conflict. Initially, Sir Keir Starmer refused to allow American planes to use British bases for bombing raids on Iran. The UK subsequently authorized defensive strikes on Iranian missile sites, and RAF planes intercepted Iranian drones. However, Trump criticized Starmer, comparing him unfavorably to Winston Churchill and accusing him of wanting to join wars after they're won. The Lib Dem leader argues the visit would provide Trump a diplomatic advantage during the conflict. Starmer has defended his position, emphasizing cooperation between American and British security officials and adherence to British principles and interests.
Read at www.bbc.com
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