UK Ambassador Says Only Israel Has 'Special Relationship' with US

The United Kingdom's ambassador to the United States, Sir Christian Turner, has stated that Israel is likely the only country with a "special relationship" with the US.

These remarks were made privately to a group of UK sixth-form students in February but were leaked during King Charles III's state visit to the US.

In a recording of the meeting, Sir Christian described the term "special relationship" as nostalgic and backward-looking, suggesting it carries significant historical baggage.

He advised the UK prime minister that simply assuming the relationship with the US is special would be unwise.

Sir Christian acknowledged the deep history and affinity between the UK and US, particularly in security, defence, and economic ties.

However, he noted that the era of the traditional special relationship is ending and that the UK and Europe can no longer rely solely on a US security umbrella.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) clarified that these were private, informal comments and do not reflect the official position of the UK government.

Diplomats reportedly no longer use the phrase "special relationship," viewing it as outdated.

The comments come amid heightened global tensions, including concerns over the Iran war, and during a significant diplomatic moment with King Charles III's visit to the US.

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