Former Arkansas governor and conservative commentator Mike Huckabee has ignited a firestorm by comparing Labour leader Keir Starmer's approach to the Gaza conflict with the controversial Allied bombing of Dresden during World War II.
In remarks made during a US radio interview, Huckabee claimed Starmer's stance represented "the same kind of moral blindness" displayed in the 1945 bombing campaign that killed an estimated 25,000 German civilians.
Political Backlash
The comments have drawn swift condemnation from across the political spectrum. A Labour spokesperson called the analogy "historically illiterate and deeply offensive," while Conservative MPs described it as "unhelpful" to transatlantic relations.
Foreign policy experts have noted the comparison appears particularly strained given Starmer's recent efforts to position Labour as a moderate voice on international affairs.
Historical Context
The Dresden bombings remain one of the most contentious Allied actions of WWII, with historians continuing to debate their military necessity. By contrast, Starmer has advocated for measured diplomatic solutions to the Gaza conflict while supporting Israel's right to self-defense.
Huckabee, who served as governor from 1996-2007 and made two unsuccessful presidential bids, has frequently courted controversy with his foreign policy commentary.
Impact on US-UK Relations
The incident comes at a sensitive time in Anglo-American relations, with both countries navigating complex geopolitical challenges. Some analysts suggest such rhetoric could complicate bipartisan support for the "special relationship."
Downing Street has declined to comment directly on Huckabee's remarks, though sources indicate the Prime Minister views them as "unrepresentative of mainstream American opinion."
