The US and Israel intensified coordinated operations in Iran, hitting command, missile and drone infrastructure. Washington signalled more action may follow; Tehran said defences responded. Reports suggest hundreds of deaths, raising concern over regional escalation.
Escalating tensions in the Middle East triggered an energy supply shock that hammered global markets. Equities fell and sovereign bonds swung as oil surged on risks to output and key routes. The upheaval raised inflation concerns and complicated central bank plans.
The PM sent HMS Dragon and armed helicopters to Cyprus to protect UK personnel after a drone incident at RAF Akrotiri. The US president said he was no Churchill, claiming Britain was not backing his plans enough. The government will charter flights from Oman to assist Britons in the Gulf.
Donald Trump said it is “too late to talk” to Iran, claiming recent US action has neutralised key assets. His stance escalated tensions and opened a rift with Britain over the next steps, following an incident in Tehran that heightened regional concern.
The US President predicts the Iran operation will be over by Easter, estimating about five weeks. He also expressed disappointment with the PM.
Ministers are preparing evacuation plans for Britons across the Middle East amid a fast‑moving crisis. Over 102,000 have sought help. The PM, disagreeing with the US President, ruled out deploying UK forces or allowing use of British bases, saying it is not in the national interest.
Washington signalled a large-scale operation against Tehran following recent incidents. The US president warned of further action. The PM criticised the approach as lacking a clear plan and ruled out UK participation aimed at regime change. Some Britons have been repatriated.
A former US president criticised the PM for delaying approval to use the UK’s Chagos base for operations concerning Iran, saying it took far too long and risked straining the UK-US relationship. Permission was eventually granted.
Washington criticised the PM’s response to a recent military operation in Iran, after he barred use of UK bases and questioned its legality. Kemi Badenoch said he fears alienating voters, amid warnings his stance risks straining the Special Relationship.
Escalating tensions followed a US–Israeli operation in Iran, prompting a widespread response across the region. Hundreds are reported killed, with incidents in the Gulf of Oman, the UAE and at a UK base in Cyprus. Governments warn of further action as air defences and diplomacy intensify.