London: The call came after President Trump publicly criticised the UK’s approach, dismissing Starmer’s plan to deploy aircraft carriers to the region as unnecessary. Writing on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said the United States did not need assistance from allies joining conflicts “after we’ve already won.”

According to a statement from 10 Downing Street, the leaders discussed the latest developments in the Middle East and the ongoing military cooperation between the UK and the US, including the use of Royal Air Force (RAF) bases in support of collective defence efforts for regional partners.

During the call, Starmer also conveyed condolences to Trump and the American people following the deaths of six US soldiers. Both leaders expressed hope to speak again soon as the situation evolves.

The conversation followed confirmation from the UK Ministry of Defence that one of Britain’s two aircraft carriers has been placed on advanced readiness. Crew members aboard HMS Prince of Wales, currently docked in Portsmouth, have been told they must be ready to deploy within days if required.

Trump, however, remained critical of the move. Speaking aboard Air Force One, he said the deployment would have been more useful weeks earlier, adding that the United States did not currently require the aircraft carriers.

Despite the criticism, Starmer defended his government’s approach, stressing that the priority remains the safety of British citizens and the protection of allies in the region.

“I know that people are worried sick for friends and family as the conflict in the Middle East continues,” Starmer said, adding that government staff are working to support nationals abroad and facilitate their return to the UK.

Downing Street confirmed that bookings have opened for British nationals in Dubai seeking government-provided flights home, alongside additional commercial travel options.

The UK has also reinforced its military presence in the region. Four additional Typhoon fighter jets have arrived in Qatar, while a Merlin helicopter is being deployed to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus to strengthen defensive capabilities. Meanwhile, the air-defence destroyer HMS Dragon is expected to sail to the Mediterranean next week to enhance security around the RAF base in Cyprus.

The US-Israel strikes on Iran have sparked political debate in the UK. Opposition Conservatives have criticised Starmer for what they described as a weak response, accusing the government of failing to support American military action.

At the same time, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey called for the cancellation of a planned State Visit by King Charles III to the United States next month, arguing that it would provide an unnecessary diplomatic boost to President Trump during a controversial conflict.