London, April 15: Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles III will embark on a four-day state visit to the United States starting April 27. This visit comes amidst ongoing tensions in West Asia, particularly concerning disagreements between British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and U.S. President Donald Trump over the Iran conflict. The circumstances surrounding the King’s visit have raised numerous questions.
According to Buckingham Palace, King Charles III will address both houses of the U.S. Congress during his inaugural official trip. His speech is expected to highlight the “shared history” between the two nations. Queen Camilla will accompany him on this visit.
The Palace’s statement indicated that this trip aims to enhance recognition of the “shared history” and current relations between the two countries.
The open disagreement between Trump and Starmer regarding the Iran conflict is well-known. British media reports suggest that some British leaders have recommended that the King cancel his visit due to the current situation.
Starmer’s comments are also significant. He stated on Monday that the trip might be “very necessary” and reassured that the relationships fostered by the monarchy could endure “for decades.”
President Trump expressed his enthusiasm for the visit on Truth Social, stating it would indeed be “fantastic.”
U.S. Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed that Charles will address Congress on April 28, although Buckingham Palace has not disclosed the exact date for the planned speech.
Queen Elizabeth II addressed Congress shortly after the Gulf War in 1991, and now her son, Charles, will take on that responsibility as King.
In Washington, the King and Camilla will spend time with Trump and First Lady Melania. They will also participate in a state dinner and a military review.
The royal couple hosted Trump during a lavish state visit in September, which included a dinner at Windsor Castle.
This visit occurs at a time when the differences between Trump and Starmer have become apparent. Trump has repeatedly accused Starmer of not providing support during the Iran conflict. At the onset of the conflict, the U.S. and the U.K. were not aligned on the issue. When the U.S. and Israel planned initial military action against Iran, Starmer denied permission to use British military bases. This decision was seen as a setback for the U.S., prompting sharp comments from Trump.
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