UK Prime Minister defends decision not to join strikes on Iran

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday defended his decision not to involve the UK in military strikes against Iran, following criticism from US President Donald Trump.

In a statement, Starmer emphasized that the UK's approach was intentional, aiming to prioritize diplomacy over military escalation.

"We were not involved in the initial strikes on Iran and we will not join offensive action now," he said, stressing that a negotiated settlement was the best path forward for the Middle East and the world.

Starmer confirmed that the UK was focusing on defensive actions to protect its citizens in the region, including 200,000 British nationals. He also confirmed that the UK had agreed to allow the US to use British bases for limited defensive operations aimed at intercepting Iranian missiles.

"The basis of our decision is the collective self-defence of longstanding friends and allies, and protecting British lives," Starmer explained.

He pointed out that Iran's attacks on countries uninvolved in the conflict, including British interests, have increased risks to civilians, describing the approach as "more reckless and more dangerous."

British jets are participating in coordinated defence efforts, and the UK will work with Ukrainian experts to counter Iranian drones.

Starmer emphasized that the UK's involvement would remain strictly defensive, in line with international law, and focused on safeguarding British lives and interests.

"We all remember the mistakes of Iraq, and we have learnt those lessons. Any UK actions must always have a lawful basis and a well-considered plan," he said.