Britain joins Middle East operation, Starmer shares details

Keir Starmer says British planes are flying over the Middle East “as part of coordinated regional defensive operations to protect our people, interests and allies.”

The British prime minister, in a press conference, said Britain has a wide range of defensive capabilities in the region, which have recently been strengthened.

He also says Britain has increased protection for British bases and personnel to their highest level, writes the BBC.

“We are reaching out to UK nationals in the region and are doing everything we can to support them,” he says.

Starmer adds that he has spoken to leaders in the E3 (UK, Germany and France) and across the region.

“It is vital that we prevent further escalation and return to a diplomatic process,” he says, adding that he wants to see “peace and security and the protection of civilian life,” the prime minister said.

According to Starmer, Iran must “refrain from further attacks, abandon its weapons program and stop the horrific violence and oppression against the Iranian people.”

“This is the path to returning to the negotiating table,” he adds.