US-Iran talks ending without deal disappointing, Streeting says

UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting voiced disappointment over the collapse of initial discussions aimed at ending the war with Iran, while backing the country’s decision to stay out of the conflict. The talks, held in Pakistan, concluded without a breakthrough early Sunday, leaving the future of diplomatic efforts uncertain. Streeting emphasized the UK’s preference for a negotiated end to hostilities that would address Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

The two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran now seems precarious following the lack of agreement. US Vice-President JD Vance, present during the negotiations, attributed the failure to Iran’s reluctance to pledge against developing a nuclear weapon. On the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme, Streeting remarked:

“It’s obviously disappointing that the talks have broken down for now.” 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.”

Streeting also critiqued President Trump’s recent warning that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” unless Iran agreed to a deal. He called the statement “outrageous” and “extraordinary,” but noted it’s important to evaluate Trump’s actions rather than his rhetoric. “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, particularly on social media, and what he does,” he added.

Strained relations between the UK and the US persist due to differences in their approaches to the Iran conflict and other global matters. Earlier this week, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed frustration over rising costs linked to actions by Putin or Trump. Streeting clarified that Starmer would not make hasty remarks on international affairs, underscoring the need for careful diplomacy. Starmer has engaged with Trump to discuss plans for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively closed during the war.

This week, the UK will host additional meetings with a coalition of nations to revive the critical shipping route. These talks aim to support the government’s goal of securing freedom of navigation in the strait, essential for oil and gas transportation. The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to stabilize the region and mitigate economic impacts.