US Strikes Iran Nuclear Sites: UK PM Warns of Escalation Risk and Urges Diplomatic Solution
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US Strikes Iran Nuclear Sites: UK Prime Minister Urges Calm Amid Escalation Fears
Tensions are rising across the globe following a dramatic overnight strike by the United States on three of Iran’s nuclear sites—Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordo. In response, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has issued a stark warning about the risk of escalation and is calling for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent a broader conflict beyond the Middle East.
Speaking publicly, Starmer emphasized that the UK had no involvement in the US military action but had been informed in advance. In his statement, he stressed the importance of de-escalation and reiterated that Iran must not be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon. “We are doing everything possible to stabilize the situation,” the Prime Minister said, “and bring all parties back to the negotiating table.”
The US Department of Defense claimed the strikes were a preemptive move to prevent Iran from reaching weapons-grade nuclear capability. Iran insists its nuclear ambitions remain peaceful, claiming uranium enrichment was part of a research initiative.
Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has raised concerns, noting that Iran has amassed enriched uranium that could potentially yield up to nine nuclear weapons—a revelation that adds urgency to the international response.
Political Reactions from the UK
UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds echoed the Prime Minister’s cautious approach. While he acknowledged the necessity of preventing a nuclear-armed Iran, he stopped short of endorsing the military strikes. “We wanted a diplomatic route, but Iran ignored repeated calls for peaceful negotiations,” he said. Reynolds was quick to reject comparisons to the Iraq War, stressing the different circumstances surrounding this conflict.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who recently met with US officials including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, also underscored the narrow window of opportunity for diplomacy. “A deal could avoid a deepening conflict. There is still time,” he said. Lammy was part of a European delegation that met with Iranian officials just days ago in an attempt to cool rising tensions.
Global Reactions: Israel, UN, and Iran’s Retaliation
Israel, long a vocal opponent of Iran’s nuclear program, expressed cautious approval. President Isaac Herzog confirmed that Iran’s facilities were “substantially” impacted, though he admitted to learning of the operation only after it had occurred.
Iran, however, strongly condemned the strikes. Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi described them as “outrageous” and warned of “everlasting consequences.” Iran’s ambassador to the UK, Seyed Ali Mousavi, claimed there were no military intentions behind its nuclear program but hinted at a measured retaliation.
UN Secretary General António Guterres weighed in, describing the strikes as a “dangerous escalation” that could plunge the region into further chaos.
A Diplomatic Path Forward?
While some UK political figures, including Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, defended the US’s decisive actions against what she called a “regime that fuels global terror,” others, such as Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, emphasized diplomacy. “It is essential that the UK plays a central role in de-escalating the conflict and achieving a peaceful solution,” Davey said.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has since advised against all travel to Iran, Israel, and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, reflecting the heightened risks for British nationals in the region.
As the world watches closely, the next few weeks may prove critical in determining whether diplomacy can overcome military confrontation. For now, leaders across Europe and beyond are urging calm and pushing for negotiation over aggression.
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