Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has advocated for diplomatic negotiations over military escalation in the Israel-Iran conflict.
This follows reports that President Trump is considering joining potential Israeli strikes against Iran. CBS, the BBC’s US partner, reports that while attack plans have reportedly been approved, a final decision remains pending.
Dame Priti Patel, Conservative shadow foreign secretary, has urged the UK government to support the US in any such action.
However, Lord Hermer, the UK’s top legal advisor, reportedly voiced private concerns that international law might only permit UK involvement if UK personnel are directly targeted.
Dame Priti countered that the UK cannot “hide behind legal advice during a crisis”.
Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, conversely called for the publication of any relevant legal advice, stating that the UK must avoid being drawn into another illegal Middle Eastern conflict.
Regarding potential UK involvement in a US strike, Sir Keir emphasized the need to address Iran’s nuclear program through negotiation, not conflict.
When pressed on legal advice received from Lord Hermer, the Prime Minister reiterated the government’s policy of not disclosing Attorney General’s advice, but stressed that de-escalation remains the primary objective.
Sir Keir acknowledged concerns about Iran’s nuclear program and affirmed Israel’s right to self-defense, but stressed the critical need to de-escalate the situation.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy is currently in Washington, meeting with his US counterpart, Marco Rubio.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed upcoming discussions with UK, French, and German counterparts on the escalation of Iran’s nuclear program, emphasizing his country’s commitment to diplomacy.
Amidst speculation of UK involvement in a potential US intervention, the Conservatives have declared their support for assisting the US in Iran.
Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Dame Priti stated that the UK should collaborate with its allies, including the US and Israel.
She added that support, including the use of UK bases or aircraft refueling, would be considered, contingent on intelligence, legal advice, and security assessments.
She highlighted previous strikes aimed at degrading Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities, which she deemed a threat to the UK.
The US might utilize the UK’s Diego Garcia military base to launch B-2 stealth bombers, capable of destroying Iran’s underground Fordo nuclear enrichment facility.
Reports indicate that Attorney General Lord Hermer has privately questioned the legality of Israel’s actions, potentially limiting the government’s ability to support US action.
The Attorney General’s office stated that the disclosure of legal advice is not routine practice, ensuring candid and thorough advice informs government decisions.
Israel has justified its actions by citing an “imminent” and “existential” threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program, a claim refuted by Iran.
The two countries have engaged in several days of retaliatory strikes following air strikes by Tel Aviv aimed at preventing Tehran from developing nuclear weapons.
The UK assisted in defending Israel from Iranian missile and drone attacks during a previous confrontation.
Regarding Lord Hermer’s warnings, Dame Priti asserted the UK’s obligation to support its “greatest ally”.
She argued against prioritizing legal advice over national security and the need to collaborate with the US, potentially involving UK military bases.
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This advice follows recent military escalations between Israel and Iran.
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