America's special relationship 'probably Israel', says UK ambassador to US
The UK's ambassador to the US, Sir Christian Turner, suggested in a private talk that Israel, not the UK, likely has the United States' true 'special relationship,' calling the term nostalgic and outdated. He emphasized strong UK-US ties in defense and history but acknowledged a shifting era in the alliance. The UK government distanced itself from the remarks, stating they do not reflect official policy. The comments emerged during King Charles III's US state visit, aimed at reinforcing bilateral relations amid global tensions.
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America's special relationship 'probably Israel', says UK ambassador to US23 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleAnna LamchePASir Christian Turner was appointed Britain's ambassador to US in December 2025The UK's ambassador to the US has said the only country that has a "special relationship" with the United States is "probably Israel"."My advice to my prime minister is 'I can't just put my hands on my ears and say it's special, it's going to be fine'," Sir Christian Turner told a group of students of the transatlantic relationship in February.The remarks were first reported by the Financial Times this week - during King Charles III's state visit to the US, a trip aimed at smoothing relations at a time of heightened tension over the Iran war.The Foreign, Commonwealth and…
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