Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson sat down with Al Arabiya English for an exclusive one-hour interview on Monday, discussing a range of topics including the Israel-Gaza peace process, President Trump’s potential role in the negotiations, and Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership in the UK.
The conversation, hosted by presenter and editor Michael Prendergast, also delved into the rise of Reform UK, Nigel Farage’s political influence, and whether Mr. Johnson plans to return to frontline politics.
Speaking on the recent Israel-Gaza peace deal, Mr. Johnson praised President Trump’s role in the negotiations, saying it was “an astonishing piece of good news” and “a very hopeful moment.” He also credited Mr. Trump for his hard work and effective use of American pressure on both Hamas and Netanyahu.
When asked if he thinks President Trump deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his part in the deal, Mr. Johnson replied, “I do. I think that he has applied the force of his personality and the power of his office to move mountains and to get this thing done.”
The former Prime Minister also expressed his hopes for the UK’s role in the rebuilding of Gaza and the need for Palestinian-run investment to boost the economy. He acknowledged Tony Blair’s involvement in the peace deal, saying he “has worked very hard on this deal” and should receive praise for his efforts.
Discussing Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s recent recognition of the state of Palestine, Mr. Johnson called it “completely vacuous” and “trivial,” adding that it achieved nothing and was premature.
When asked for his thoughts on Sir Keir Starmer, Mr. Johnson replied, “You’re seriously asking me this question? He was my opponent. He’s terrible. He’s a human ballard.”
He went on to criticize Sir Keir for taking free suits and spectacles from a Labour donor and for giving in to pressure from China. “It’s very weak of Starmer to give in to this pressure,” he said.
Mr. Johnson also discussed the rise of Reform UK and Nigel Farage’s political influence, saying he thinks it’s unlikely for them to become Prime Minister and that the best bet is for the Tory Party to “get their [act] together and recover.”
On the topic of AI and ChatGPT, which he has been using to write his books, Mr. Johnson said, “I see great promise in this technology because we’re all simple. We’re human beings.”
When asked if a return to politics is on the cards, Mr. Johnson replied, “It is statistically possible or locked in a disused fridge. It’s statistically, anything can happen. But water can flow uphill. But it’s unlikely.”
He added, “I want my party to come back and to get organised. That’s the best solution.”
Reflecting on his legacy, Mr. Johnson said he is proud of helping to give the UK back its “constitutional legal independence” and for the country’s success in vaccinating its citizens and coming out of lockdowns quickly. He also expressed pride in the UK’s role in ensuring the freedom of Ukraine and preventing a catastrophe in the country.
The full interview can be watched here: https://youtu.be/JrYPQfZNgKE?si=EhpkkK2r9N7xRZ-y
About Michael Prendergast
Presenter and Editor, Al Arabiya News
A dynamic force in broadcast journalism, Michael joined Al Arabiya in December 2023 after a standout run as senior guest booker for Piers Morgan Uncensored. There, he secured headline-making interviews with global names including Bill Gates, Ice Cube, RFK Jr., President Isaac Herzog, Tyson Fury, Dana White, and Bassem Youssef, contributing to tens of millions of views and viral success cementing his place in the industry.
Previously, Michael held key producer roles at ITV, LBC, and NewsUK, earning a reputation for sharp editorial instincts and innovative storytelling. With a career spanning production, booking, and on-air presenting, he’s fast becoming a leading voice in modern broadcast media.
About Al Arabiya News
Al Arabiya News is the leading source of news and opinion from the Middle East for English-speaking audiences around the world. It is a 24-hour digital news platform publishing breaking news, politics, business, features, opinion and lifestyle. With a headquarters in Dubai and correspondents across the region, Al Arabiya News presents a globalized view of the Arab world to audiences across five continents.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.