Argentina has renewed its call for negotiations with the UK over the Falkland Islands, following reports that the United States may reconsider its position on the territory. The potential shift is seen as a response to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's refusal to fully support US-led strikes against Iran.
A leaked Pentagon email, reported by Reuters, outlined options for the Trump administration to penalise NATO allies, including reassessing US diplomatic support for 'imperial possessions' such as the Falklands. Downing Street has insisted the sovereignty of the islands is 'not in question', citing the islanders' right to self-determination.
Argentine Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno responded on X, expressing willingness to resume bilateral negotiations to find a 'peaceful and definitive solution' to the sovereignty dispute. The Falkland Islands government stated it had 'complete confidence' in the UK's commitment to uphold their right to self-determination.
The row comes as King Charles III and Queen Camilla prepare for a state visit to the US on Monday. Downing Street expressed confidence the visit would showcase the strength of the UK-US relationship, despite tensions over Iran. The US president is an ally of Argentina's President Javier Milei, while his relationship with Sir Keir has deteriorated since the Iran crisis began.
The UK has granted limited permission for US use of British military bases for defensive actions against Iran, but only after Tehran's retaliatory actions. The Pentagon email expressed frustration at NATO allies' reluctance to grant broader access for the Iran war. Former Foreign Office adviser Ben Judah suggested converting the Falklands into an overseas kingdom to strengthen their status.
