Keir Starmer has expressed profound concern over Iran’s escalating military actions following recent joint US-Israeli air strikes. Speaking with key Middle Eastern leaders, he highlighted the dangers posed by what has been described as Iran’s “most intense operation” yet.
On Sunday afternoon, Downing Street confirmed that the Prime Minister engaged in urgent discussions with the kings of Jordan and Bahrain, as well as the crown prince of Kuwait. These talks come amid ongoing strikes and explosions across several Gulf states, heightening regional tensions.
According to a Downing Street spokesman, the conversations focused on ensuring the safety of civilians, including British nationals and armed forces personnel. The leaders collectively condemned the strikes that have damaged civilian and commercial infrastructure, causing harm to innocent people.
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Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to regional security, noting that British aircraft have been active since the previous day as part of coordinated defensive efforts to protect allies. “We will continue to offer our support,” the spokesman said.
While the UK has not participated in the US-Israeli air strikes, Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed that some Iranian missile strikes have come dangerously close to British troops stationed in Bahrain. Healey reported that two ballistic missiles were fired near Cyprus, although these were not believed to be targeted at the island.
Describing Iran’s attacks as increasingly “indiscriminate, widespread, and uncontrolled,” Healey remarked on recent strikes that hit not only military facilities but also civilian targets such as hotels in Dubai and Bahrain, along with Kuwait’s civilian airport. He emphasized the proximity of British personnel to these attacks, highlighting the risks faced by around 300 troops near missile and drone strikes in Bahrain.
Additionally, Healey confirmed the deployment of a UK counter-drone team in northern Iraq, which successfully intercepted Iranian drones within the past 24 hours.
The evolving situation underscores the volatility in the region and the UK’s ongoing efforts to safeguard its people and interests amid heightened tensions.