Corbyn: Starmer Too Close to Trump on Iran, Backs Free Education
In an interview with PoliticsJOE (@PoliticsJOE), former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn offered a wide-ranging critique of the government's approach to the Iran conflict, the economy, and education, while also discussing by-election strategy and the need for constitutional reform.
Commenting on the escalating war in Iran, Corbyn warned of a "horror story of a repeat of Iraq," arguing that Prime Minister Keir Starmer is in "lockstep" with the United States despite initial refusals to allow the use of UK bases for strikes. He questioned the legality of the US action, noting that serious nuclear negotiations were ongoing before the bombing began, and expressed concern for Iranian civilians, including schoolchildren, among the casualties.
On domestic policy, Corbyn criticised Rachel Reeves' Spring Statement as "pie in the sky," arguing that rising oil and gas prices from the Middle East conflict will undermine economic forecasts. He highlighted the government's own prediction of rising unemployment, particularly among youth, and accused Labour of being "oblivious to the reality of life" for many, pointing to failures on rent control, housing allowance, and student debt.
Corbyn advocated for a "national education service" with free university tuition, citing the Scottish model, and suggested that the growing student debt crisis will eventually require a government write-off.
Reflecting on the recent Gorton and Denton by-elections, where Labour came third, Corbyn said the party's campaign became "irrelevant" and confirmed he would support Green candidates and independents who oppose austerity and war in upcoming local elections.
On democracy, Corbyn called for a commission to examine voting rights, including for homeless people and long-term foreign residents. He also backed abolishing the House of Lords in favour of an elected chamber and suggested the UK should debate having an elected head of state.
Source: Jeremy Corbyn on Iran, student loans, and electing the King (Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGKO-MYSpGo)