Lord Mandelson, Britain’s ambassador to Washington, has explicitly praised President Trump’s use of military force against Iran as an example of effective “coercive power.” During a speech advocating for a closer US-UK relationship, he highlighted Trump’s “decisive action on Iran’s nuclear programme” as a successful use of American deterrence that blended strength with unpredictability.
This endorsement of Trump’s hawkish foreign policy was part of a broader argument that the president’s unconventional style is an asset in a volatile world. Mandelson presented Trump as a leader unafraid to challenge norms and take risks, qualities he deems essential for navigating the current geopolitical landscape. The speech was delivered at the Ditchley Foundation ahead of Trump’s UK state visit.
The central theme of the address was a call for a new US-UK technology partnership to counter the rise of China. Mandelson argued that this alliance, focusing on AI and quantum computing, is of paramount strategic importance. He suggested that a strong, decisive leader like Trump is the ideal partner for such a forward-looking and ambitious undertaking.
By connecting his praise for Trump’s military actions to his vision for a tech alliance, Mandelson signaled a UK willingness to align with the more muscular aspects of “America First” foreign policy. He argued that the world could no longer rely on the US to act as the global “sheriff” without allies stepping up to form a more balanced and proactive partnership.
