US-Iran talks ending without deal disappointing, Streeting says

UK’s Streeting Expresses Disappointment as US-Iran Talks Fail to Reach Agreement

Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the collapse of early US-Iran discussions as “disappointing,” while supporting the UK’s decision to stay out of the conflict. The two nations had been negotiating in Pakistan, but the talks concluded Sunday without a formal agreement. Streeting highlighted the UK’s preference for a diplomatic resolution to the war, one that would “address Iran’s nuclear aspirations.” He affirmed that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had made “the right choice” by avoiding a commitment to US-Israeli military strikes on Iran.

The two-week ceasefire between Iran and the US now appears vulnerable following the failed negotiations. US Vice President JD Vance, who participated in the talks, cited Iran’s reluctance to pledge against nuclear development as the primary obstacle. During an interview on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg program, Streeting remarked:

“It’s obviously disappointing that the talks have broken down for now.” But the optimist in me says two things; first, 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.”

Differences over the Iran war and broader global matters have tested the UK-US alliance. Earlier this week, Sir Keir criticized the impact of international leaders’ decisions on domestic costs, saying he was “fed up with the fact that families across the country see their bills go up and down… because of the actions of Putin or Trump.” Streeting clarified that Sir Keir intended to “speak with measured intent” on such issues. The Prime Minister had engaged with Trump to address the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil and gas shipping route. The UK will host further discussions with allies this week to reopen the passage, continuing efforts to secure freedom of navigation.