Prime Minister Rishi Sunak addressed the British Parliament, condemning Iran for its recent actions in the Middle East, following a barrage of 300 missiles and drones targeted at Israel. Sunak praised the bravery of the Royal Air Force pilots who assisted in shooting down Iranian drones and emphasized the UK’s commitment to de-escalating the situation and preventing further bloodshed in the region.
Sunak reiterated the UK’s condemnation of Iran’s “reckless and dangerous escalation,” describing it as an attempt to sow chaos and destabilize the Middle East. He announced plans to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to express solidarity and discuss strategies for preventing further escalation, emphasizing the need for all sides to show restraint.
Highlighting three key priorities, Sunak emphasized the importance of upholding regional security, pursuing a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, and increasing aid to people in Gaza. He affirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting stability and security in the region, noting its direct impact on domestic security and prosperity.
The statement to Parliament followed the summoning of the Iranian Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office by UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron. The UK strongly condemned Iran’s attack against Israel and its violation of Jordan and Iraq’s airspace, labeling it as a dangerous and unnecessary escalation.
Cameron, speaking to the BBC, described the attack as a “double defeat” for Iran and urged Israel to respond with caution and intelligence. He emphasized the UK’s stance against retaliatory strikes, echoing US President Joe Biden’s call for Israel to “take the win” and exercise restraint in its response to Iran’s aggression.
