United States President Donald Trump said the United States does not need support from the United Kingdom’s aircraft carriers in its ongoing war with Iran, signaling tensions between the longtime allies.
Trump made the remarks on social media after reports that Britain was considering sending two aircraft carriers, including HMS Prince of Wales, to the Middle East amid escalating conflict in the region.
In his post, Trump said the United States had already gained the upper hand in the conflict and dismissed the potential deployment of British naval forces. He added that Washington did not need partners “that join wars after we’ve already won,” suggesting frustration with what he described as delayed support from London.
The comments came amid a widening conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which began after large-scale strikes on Iranian targets in late February. The war has raised fears of broader instability across the Middle East.
Reports indicate the UK Ministry of Defence has placed its aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales on high readiness, though officials say no final decision has been made regarding deployment to the region.
The dispute also follows earlier disagreements between Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, including London’s initial hesitation to allow US forces to use British bases for strikes on Iran.
Despite the tensions, the United States and the United Kingdom remain key military allies, and British officials have emphasized that consultations with Washington over the Middle East crisis are ongoing.