Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed the United Kingdom is sending fighter jets and other military equipment to the Middle East as the conflict between Iran and Israel worsens. Speaking to journalists on his flight to Canada for the G7 summit, Starmer described the move as a precautionary measure to support ongoing international efforts.
He revealed that he has spoken with U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu since Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites on Friday. The attacks reportedly killed several people, including senior Iranian military officials and civilians.
Iran retaliated by launching drones and missiles at Israel overnight. Starmer described the situation as intense and constantly changing. He emphasized that both he and Foreign Secretary David Lammy are in frequent contact with international partners, including Iranian officials, pushing for calm and a reduction in violence.
Starmer said his conversation with Netanyahu was constructive and focused on Israel’s security. Lammy, on his part, expressed concern over renewed attacks and stressed the importance of protecting civilians. He said he had spoken directly with Iran’s foreign minister to urge restraint.
UK officials maintain that their primary goal is to support peace and stability in the region.
