US Senator John Kennedy has sharply criticised British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, declaring that the UK leader is the last person the United States should seek for military advice as debate intensifies over Western strategy in the escalating conflict involving Iran.

Speaking during remarks in Washington, the Louisiana Republican questioned Starmer’s judgment on defence matters and foreign policy decisions, arguing that the British government’s recent actions have raised concerns among American lawmakers about strategic direction.

Kennedy suggested that the United States should rely primarily on its own military leadership rather than seeking guidance from the British prime minister.

The criticism comes amid growing transatlantic debate over how Western allies should respond to rising tensions with Iran.

The United States and Israel have conducted military operations targeting Iranian assets, while governments across Europe have been weighing the risks of deeper involvement in the conflict.

Starmer’s government initially resisted requests to allow American forces to use British bases in early stages of the campaign.

British officials later permitted the United States to use certain facilities for defensive operations after Iranian retaliatory actions threatened regional stability and the safety of allied forces.

The prime minister has defended his cautious approach, arguing that decisions on military participation must balance alliance commitments with the responsibility to protect British personnel and national interests.

British officials say the country’s armed forces have been actively involved in defensive operations across the Middle East, including efforts to intercept drones and safeguard regional bases.

Kennedy’s comments also reflect broader political disagreements over security policy between some American lawmakers and the current British leadership.

The senator has previously criticised proposals linked to the Chagos Islands, warning that any changes affecting the joint US-UK military base on Diego Garcia could have serious strategic consequences.

The exchange highlights the strain that can emerge even among close allies during periods of international crisis.

While the United States and the United Kingdom remain deeply connected through defence cooperation and intelligence sharing, debates over military strategy and geopolitical priorities have become more visible as tensions in the Middle East escalate.

Despite the criticism, officials on both sides of the Atlantic continue to emphasise the enduring strength of the US-UK security partnership, which remains one of the most significant defence relationships in the world.