King Charles III arrived in the United States for a state visit.
The visit came at a time when the US and British governments held differing views on Iran.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom have arrived in the United States for a four-day state visit.
Reportedly, this state visit is one of the largest and most significant of Charles III's reign, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the US declaration of independence from British rule. It is also the first visit by a British monarch to the US in the last 20 years.
The visit comes at a time when the US and UK governments hold differing views on Iran.
The King and Queen of the United Kingdom were welcomed at the White House by the US President and First Lady Melania Trump. After a brief official ceremony, the parties held a closed-door tea meeting.
Later, a garden reception was held at the residence of the British Ambassador. It was attended by politicians, diplomats, and public figures, including Senator Ted Cruz and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
The visit's program includes a speech to Congress, a state dinner at the White House, and a trip to New York City. The King's speech is expected to emphasize the historic cooperation and shared democratic values between the two nations.
According to observers, the visit also serves as an important diplomatic test for the government of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and could help restore the "special relationship." These ties are said to have reached their lowest point since the Suez Crisis.
At the same time, disagreements persist regarding US and Israeli military actions against Iran. Washington has expressed dissatisfaction with Britain's position on this matter.
At the end of the trip, the royal couple will commemorate the victims of the September 11 attacks in New York and visit environmental projects in Virginia.
"Although Trump has somewhat softened his criticism of Britain in recent days, an internal Pentagon memo notes that the US may reconsider its stance on Britain's claim to the Falkland Islands. This could further strain bilateral relations," writes Reuters.
According to reports, one of the issues Charles III will try to avoid during the visit is the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. The King's brother, former Prince Andrew, lost his reputation and faced investigation due to his connections with Epstein. The former prince has denied all allegations.
