British Prime Minister Keir Starmer Backs Israel’s Right to Defend Against Iran, Urges Restraint from Tehran

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LONDON, UK — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed support for Israel’s right to launch defensive actions against Iran, affirming that Israel has the authority to protect its national security amid rising tensions in the Middle East. Starmer’s comments came during a press conference in London, where he also cautioned Tehran against retaliating.

“Israel has the right to defend itself against threats to its security,” Starmer stated. “Iran should exercise restraint and avoid escalating the situation further. Any response from Iran would not only increase instability but also risk undermining prospects for peace in the region.”

Support for Israel’s Security and Concerns for Regional Stability

Starmer’s remarks underscore the UK’s longstanding alliance with Israel, highlighting concerns within the British government over Iran’s regional influence and potential nuclear capabilities. Starmer’s firm stance also aligns the UK more closely with its American and European allies, who have echoed similar support for Israel’s right to self-defence.

The Prime Minister’s comments come amid recent Israeli airstrikes targeting facilities in Syria allegedly linked to Iranian interests. Israel has intensified operations in Syria, targeting what it claims are Iranian weapons depots and strategic military positions in a bid to curb Tehran’s influence near its borders.

Diplomatic Reactions and Calls for Restraint

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has also voiced support for Israel’s defensive actions while calling for calm. “The UK recognises Israel’s security concerns and its right to take appropriate measures,” Lammy stated. “However, it is essential that all parties exercise restraint to prevent further escalation and protect the region’s fragile stability.”

The United Nations and the European Union have urged all parties to pursue diplomatic solutions rather than military action, emphasising that an armed escalation could impact negotiations on broader issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme. UN Secretary-General António Guterres released a statement urging “maximum restraint” from both Israel and Iran, cautioning that military action could lead to a regional conflict with severe humanitarian consequences.

Tensions Over Iran’s Nuclear Programme

The UK, alongside other Western powers, has been closely monitoring Iran’s nuclear activities amid stalled negotiations over the 2015 nuclear agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Efforts to revive the deal have been complicated by tensions in the region, with Iran’s increasing uranium enrichment levels raising alarm among Western leaders.

Prime Minister Starmer also reiterated the UK’s position on Iran’s nuclear ambitions. “The UK is committed to preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons,” Starmer stated. “Iran’s recent advancements in uranium enrichment are deeply concerning, and the UK remains in close coordination with international partners to address this issue diplomatically.”

Domestic Reactions and Political Implications

Starmer’s remarks have sparked debate within the UK, drawing both support and criticism from political leaders and public figures. Supporters argue that Britain’s strong stance aligns with Western security priorities and its commitment to Israel’s defence. However, critics, including members of the Labour Party’s left wing and several human rights groups, warn that such rhetoric could exacerbate tensions and hinder diplomatic efforts.

The Prime Minister’s position has also raised concerns within the UK’s sizeable Iranian and Middle Eastern communities, who worry about the broader impact of such escalations. Some community leaders have called on the government to pursue balanced diplomacy that addresses security concerns while actively seeking peaceful solutions to the Middle East’s complex challenges.

Looking Ahead: Potential Regional and Global Impacts

As the situation remains volatile, the UK and its allies are likely to increase diplomatic pressure on Tehran to avoid retaliation. Analysts caution that if Iran responds to Israel’s military actions, it could further destabilise the Middle East, impacting global oil markets and potentially driving up energy prices amid an already fragile global economy.

With diplomatic channels still open, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether escalating rhetoric translates into broader conflict or if diplomacy can forestall further confrontation.