511. Is Blair Undermining Starmer on Iran? (Question Time) - The Rest Is Politics Recap
Podcast: The Rest Is Politics
Published: 2026-03-11
Duration: 55 minutes
Guests: Alastair Campbell, Rory Stewart
Summary
The episode examines Tony Blair's implied support for Trump's Middle East policies over Keir Starmer's approach, and the complex geopolitical dynamics involving Iran, the US, and Israel.
What Happened
Tony Blair has indirectly criticized Keir Starmer by suggesting that the UK should align more closely with the US on foreign policy, particularly regarding Trump's actions in Iran. Blair's remarks were made at a pro-Israel Jewish news fundraiser, which adds context to his stance favoring US-Israel relations over Starmer's position.
Rishi Sunak has also shown support for Trump's approach, revealing a division within UK politics on how to handle Middle Eastern conflicts. Meanwhile, the UK's military resources have declined significantly, with only one operational submarine and limited naval capabilities, which impacts its role in geopolitical matters.
The episode delves into the internal situation in Iran, where the regime is unpopular with 80-90% of the population, yet there is no credible opposition to challenge it. This leaves the Iranian public feeling trapped between an oppressive government and external threats from American and Israeli military actions.
Trump's controversial communication tactics and his alleged sharing of intelligence with Iran have further complicated international relations. His actions are seen as strengthening Russia's position by driving up oil prices and weakening Western economies, as highlighted by concerns over the removal of patriot missiles from Ukraine.
The discussion also touches on historical parallels, referencing Churchill's warnings about foreign interference and the unpredictability of war. Churchill's perspective on the UK's position between the US and Russia as a 'poor little British donkey' underscores the current geopolitical tensions.
European leaders are urged to adopt a more unified stance against Trump's misinformation, yet divisions within Europe, exacerbated by external forces, hinder this unity. Brexit has influenced public sentiment, with a majority in Belfast feeling more European, complicating the idea of a United Ireland.
Economic challenges such as rising oil and fertilizer prices are contributing to a cost of living crisis across Europe, potentially benefiting far-right political parties in future elections. Rachel Reeves expresses concern over these issues, noting their impact on unemployment and growth.
Netanyahu's political standing has improved amid these tensions, with strong support from the Israeli public for actions against Iran. The episode reflects on the broader implications of these geopolitical maneuvers, including the strategic motivations behind US and Israeli policies.
Key Insights
- Tony Blair suggests the UK should align more closely with the US against Iran, a stance influenced by his pro-Israel views, which contrasts with Keir Starmer's more independent approach. This tension reveals the complexity of UK foreign policy in balancing US and Israeli interests.
- The UK military's decline is stark, with only one operational submarine, limiting its geopolitical influence. This reduction in military capability highlights the challenges the UK faces in maintaining its traditional role on the global stage.
- Iran's regime is despised by 80-90% of its population, yet a credible opposition is absent, leaving citizens trapped between an oppressive government and potential US-Israeli military actions. This internal stagnation complicates international efforts to influence change in Iran.
- Trump's alleged sharing of intelligence with Iran inadvertently strengthens Russia by driving up oil prices, which weakens Western economies. This dynamic underscores the intricate interplay between international relations and economic pressures influencing global power balances.
Key Questions Answered
What is Tony Blair's position on Keir Starmer's approach to Iran?
Tony Blair has implied support for Trump's actions in Iran over Keir Starmer's approach, suggesting that the UK should align more closely with US foreign policy.
How have UK military resources changed over time?
The UK armed forces have significantly decreased from 321,000 personnel during the Cold War to 125,680 currently, with limited naval resources and only one operational submarine.
What challenges does the Iranian regime currently face?
The Iranian regime is deeply unpopular with 80-90% of the population, yet lacks a credible opposition, leaving the public caught between an oppressive government and external threats.