Voters are divided over Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s Iran war response, according to a new YouGov poll. The survey, shows 41 per cent of voters think Starmer has handled the conflict poorly. Meanwhile, 37 per cent believe he has responded well.
Labour supporters are more positive. About 59 per cent of those who voted Labour in 2024 said Starmer managed the situation effectively. On the other hand, criticism continues from across the political spectrum.
Donald Trump has repeatedly criticised Starmer’s Iran war response. On Monday, he said he is “not happy” with the prime minister for refusing to send British warships to the Strait of Hormuz. Trump also claimed the UK should participate more actively in military operations, which Starmer has resisted.
Despite Trump’s comments, the UK has allowed U.S. forces to use British bases defensively. However, Starmer has made clear that Britain “will not be drawn into the wider war.” He added that the government wants “as many partners as possible involved” in reopening the strategic strait.
The Iran conflict has disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil route through which around 20 per cent of the world’s daily oil flows. Consequently, energy prices have surged, prompting domestic concern.
In response, Starmer announced a £53 million support package on Monday. The funding targets households struggling with rising energy costs. The poll also revealed that 84 per cent of voters want action to reduce energy prices for all households. Furthermore, 73 per cent support measures for the least well-off, and 75 per cent back action to help businesses cope.
The survey found strong opposition to UK involvement in offensive operations. About 70 per cent of respondents opposed joining the US offensive in Iran, while only 17 per cent supported it. Similarly, 57 per cent said Trump was wrong to take military action, compared to 18 per cent who supported it.
As the conflict continues, Starmer faces the challenge of balancing domestic opinion with international obligations. Meanwhile, tensions between the U.S. and UK highlight the limits of allied consensus on military strategy.
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