Starmer chairs Cobra meeting over US-Israeli strikes on Iran

Starmer chairs Cobra meeting over US-Israeli strikes on Iran

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has convened a Cobra meeting in response to recent US and Israeli air strikes targeting Iran. These attacks followed the collapse of negotiations earlier in the week aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear programme. Although the UK did not take part in the strikes, explosions were reported in several Iranian cities, including Tehran. According to Israel’s military, Iran has retaliated with attacks, which have also triggered explosions and missile alerts in various countries hosting US military facilities across the region.

The escalating conflict has impacted regional safety and transportation, with several major airlines suspending or rerouting flights to and from the Middle East. British Airways has cancelled services to destinations including Tel Aviv, Bahrain, and Amman, while Virgin Atlantic and Wizz Air have altered or cancelled flights due to airspace closures and heightened security measures. Both Qatar Airways and Emirates have halted flights involving Doha and Dubai, respectively, citing safety concerns. Heathrow Airport has advised travellers to stay informed by checking updates from their airlines.

In advising UK nationals, the Foreign Office has urged those in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates to shelter in place immediately following missile attack reports. Meanwhile, Britons in Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Oman have been instructed to remain alert and seek shelter when necessary. The UK government emphasized that its primary concern remains the safety of its citizens in the region, pledging consular support while expressing a strong desire to avoid further escalation into a broader regional conflict.

Public statements have reflected the seriousness of the situation. A government spokesperson reiterated the UK’s firm stance that Iran must never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons and expressed ongoing support for negotiated solutions. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump described the strikes as the beginning of “major combat operations” and called on Iranian forces to disarm, urging Iranian civilians to seek shelter until the operation concludes. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council warned of a “crushing” retaliation against the US-Israeli attacks. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch declared her support for the US and Israel in confronting what she termed the “vile regime” of Iran

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