British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer strongly condemned Iran’s missile attacks against Israel during an emergency statement from Downing Street, as the UK confirmed its forces played a role in defensive operations.
Starmer was on a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when the attacks began, Downing Street sources said. The call was cut short, but the British leader affirmed the UK’s commitment to Israel’s security and civilian protection, while also calling for ceasefires in Lebanon and Gaza.
“We stand with Israel and recognise its right to self-defence against aggression,” Starmer said in his address, accusing Iran of causing “chaos and destruction” in the region. He expressed “deep concern” about the area being “on the brink” and warned of the risk of miscalculation.
Defence Secretary John Healey later confirmed British forces had “played their part in efforts to prevent further escalation in the Middle East,” though specific details of the operation were not disclosed.
The Times newspaper reported that while British forces were prepared to assist in Israel’s defence, they lacked the capability to intercept ballistic missiles like their American counterparts. It noted that British Typhoon jets based in Cyprus had previously shot down Iranian drones targeting Israel in April.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy also condemned the attack “in the strongest terms,” warning that “a cycle of escalation is in no one’s interest.”
Starmer held telephone conversations with Jordan’s King Abdullah, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. All agreed on condemning the Iranian attack while emphasising the importance of de-escalation and ceasefires in Lebanon and Gaza.
The Prime Minister renewed calls for British nationals in Lebanon to leave immediately, describing the situation as “serious.”
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