Arabic version: السفير البريطاني: إسرائيل الحليف الفريد لأمريكا

The UK ambassador to the US, Sir Christian Turner, has stated that Israel is likely the only country with a “special relationship” with the United States. During a meeting with students about the transatlantic relationship, he advised that he could not ignore the complexities of this connection.

According to BBC News, Turner’s comments were highlighted in a Financial Times report this week, coinciding with King Charles III’s state visit to the US, which aimed to strengthen ties during a period of heightened tensions due to the Iran war.

In a leaked audio recording, Turner expressed skepticism about the phrase “special relationship,” describing it as nostalgic and burdened with historical baggage. He acknowledged the deep history and affinity between the US and UK, particularly in security and defense collaboration, but emphasized that the current era is evolving.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) responded to Turner’s comments, clarifying that they were private and informal and did not represent the UK government’s official stance. Turner noted that while he does not believe the UK and US are experiencing a “moment of rupture,” he recognizes that significant changes are occurring in their relationship.