Media: U.S.-UK Security Ties Fractured Over Trump-Stammer Dispute
¬ Brussels worries over Houthi decision may draw Europe into Middle East conflict
¬ Iran's Oil Minister: Conflict Won't Cause Fuel Shortages in Iran
According to sources cited by the Financial Times, tensions between U.S. President Trump and UK Prime Minister Stammer have begun affecting working relationships between diplomatic and military personnel of both countries, leading to a disruption in security cooperation.
Trump had previously expressed disappointment over Stammer’s refusal to assist in the Iran conflict. Reports indicate that the strained relations between Trump and Stammer over Iran have caused the first fissure in U.S.-UK security cooperation, undermining working relationships among diplomats and military officials.
This situation has reportedly emerged since Trump returned to the White House. Sources added that the UK has recently started delaying approval for U.S. aircraft using British military facilities. "Previously, such applications were automatically approved, but now the review process has become much stricter."
The report notes that UK officials also have to adapt to the reality of a shrinking core circle around Trump in the White House. British diplomats say their traditional communication channels in Washington have diminished, with increasing reliance on a small group of advisers.
Euractiv, a Brussels-based EU news website, cited multiple sources stating that EU leaders are concerned that the Houthis’ (Ansar Allah movement in Yemen) decision to join Iran in military confrontation in the Middle East could drag the EU into regional conflict.
Sources said Brussels fears "any such military intervention might pull Europe into an expanding regional conflict," especially as European navies are currently conducting the "Aspides" escort operation in the Red Sea. Launched in February 2024, this operation was initiated in response to Houthi attacks on merchant vessels supporting Israel. During the mission, EU member states deployed between three and six frigates, destroyers, and minesweepers at different times.
Two European diplomats said the Houthis' involvement "could further complicate an already volatile situation." Brussels does not rule out the possibility of future attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, which would extend the waiting time required to protect these vessels.
Earlier reports indicated that, amid deteriorating conditions in the Strait of Hormuz and direct clashes between Houthi forces in Yemen and Israel, the EU may have to reconsider its naval mission authorization in the Red Sea.
Ruptly News Agency, Tehran, March 31 — Iran’s Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad stated that U.S.-Israeli aggression will not lead to fuel shortages in Iran, as oil sales discounts have decreased and average supply prices have significantly risen.
Paknejad said on his Telegram channel: "There is no reason to worry about fuel supply; necessary measures have been taken. People can be assured there will be no issues. The discounts on oil sales have greatly decreased. The average supply price has significantly increased."
Original: toutiao.com/article/1861160557332484/
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