UK Prime Minister Starmer Asserts Solidarity with Israel Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

Starmer expresses UK's solidarity with Israel, voicing 'deep concern' over the Middle East nearing a crisis

During a conversation with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, an attack on Israel commenced, as reported by Downing Street earlier.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Wednesday, October 2, 2024, 9:

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Sir Keir Starmer has expressed solidarity with Israel and voiced significant concerns about the Middle East nearing a critical point of conflict.

During a broadcast from Downing Street on Tuesday night, the prime minister denounced Iran's assault involving approximately 200 missiles fired at Israel.

Defence Secretary John Healey later acknowledged that British troops were involved in efforts to "prevent further escalation" in the area, although he did not detail their specific roles.

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Sir Keir, engaged in a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the time of the attack, stated that the rockets targeted civilian areas and that it was "too early to fully evaluate the consequences."

"He vehemently denounced the Iranian regime's efforts to harm innocent Israelis, intensifying an already perilous situation and driving the region towards further instability," he stated.

"We support Israel and acknowledge its right to defend itself against these aggressive acts."

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Sir Keir urged Iran to "cease these aggressions," stating that the country has "threatened the stability of the Middle East for too long."

"He expressed grave concerns about the region teetering on the edge and the potential for misjudgment," he added.

Israel has promised "there will be consequences" after the attack, which Iran claims was a response to the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon last week.

When questioned whether the UK would employ its military resources to assist Israel in its defense against Iran, a supporter of the militant group, the prime minister responded, "As you can understand, this is a developing scenario.

"I can confirm our support for Israel and its right to self-defense. We will share any pertinent information as it becomes available."

Several hours following his initial remarks, Mr. Healey verified that British forces were active this evening, although it remains uncertain whether they played a role similar to the U.S. forces in intercepting the Iranian missiles.

The Ministry of Defence has not disclosed the specifics of the assistance provided to Israel. However, it is known that RAF Typhoon jets, stationed at a Cypriot air base, were mobilized to support Israel in response to Iran's attack in April.

Mr. Healey stated, "I fully denounce Iran's assault on Israel."

This evening, British troops have been involved in efforts to mitigate further escalation in the Middle East.

"I extend my gratitude to all UK staff engaged in the mission for their bravery and expertise."

"The UK completely supports Israel's right to protect its nation and its citizens from any threats."

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Following a ministerial meeting he led at Downing Street regarding the Middle East situation, Sir Keir issued several statements.

During his conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Mr. Netanyahu, Number 10 disclosed this evening that an assault on Israel had commenced.

Sir Keir refrained from discussing specifics of the conversation, but emphasized that his talks with global leaders about the conflict always center on the urgency of establishing a ceasefire and finding a political resolution.

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"The focus of my discussions has been on the necessity of establishing the environment and circumstances that will lead to de-escalation and pave the way for a political solution," the prime minister stated to journalists following his broadcasted speech.

He mentioned that through discussions with Mr. Netanyahu, he advocated for a ceasefire in Gaza, which has been besieged since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.

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The Prime Minister reiterated the urgent recommendation for British nationals in Lebanon to evacuate as soon as possible, stating, "we are fully committed to evacuating our citizens, however, the conditions remain highly unstable."

"He emphasized that now is the moment to depart if you are capable of doing so."

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