UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that British aircraft are now operating over the Middle East as part of “coordinated regional defensive operations to protect people, interests, and allies.”
In a press conference, Starmer emphasized that the UK maintains a broad range of defensive capabilities in the region, which have been recently strengthened. He also noted that protection for British bases and personnel has been increased to the highest level.
“We are contacting UK citizens in the region and doing everything we can to support them,” Starmer said.
The Prime Minister added that he has communicated with leaders of the E3 (UK, Germany, France) and other regional actors.
“It is vital to prevent further escalation and return to a diplomatic process. I want to see peace, security, and protection of civilian lives,” Starmer emphasized.
According to Starmer, Iran must refrain from further attacks, abandon its weapons programs, and stop the brutal oppression of its people.
“This is the path to returning to the negotiating table,” he concluded.
