Trump criticised the PM for delaying permission to use UK bases for US operations against Iran, saying Britain moved too slowly. Starmer replied he rejects regime change from the air and set limits on UK involvement. Washington predicts weeks of activity; ministers stress civilian safety and control of bases.
After the killing of Iran’s leader, the PM publicly rebuked Washington, rejecting regime change from the air and insisting on a viable, legal plan before deeper involvement. The US President expressed disappointment over delayed UK base access as operations widen; Britain urges caution and allied unity.
Energy markets jolted after Iran shifted focus to infrastructure, prompting the shutdown of a Qatari LNG plant following drone incidents. Gas prices jumped, risk premia rose for shipping and insurance, and traders moved to safe assets as Western forces continued regional operations.
Donald Trump ordered large-scale US military action against Iran, triggering regional incidents and shaking markets. Oil and gas prices rose, reports cited friendly fire losses, and questions intensified over allied support alongside scrutiny of the operation’s aims, costs and risks.
Trump said a larger phase of the US campaign against Iran is imminent, predicting further operations. Energy prices rose and markets wobbled on supply fears, underscoring wider regional risks.
Britain is preparing a potential mass evacuation of nationals across the Gulf after airspace closures amid rising regional tensions. Over 94,000 have contacted officials and are urged to register with embassies and follow shelter-in-place guidance while plans are readied to bring people home.
Trump said the campaign to remove Iran’s leadership is “ahead of schedule” and will continue for days, urging the military and public to surrender. Tehran’s retaliatory actions tested regional defences, while Washington signalled no cease in operations despite offers of talks.
Britain has cleared the US to use UK bases for a military operation against Iran, aiming to protect nationals and deter further incidents. No 10 is planning a mass evacuation from the Gulf. Ministers warn of a jump in oil prices, though Washington signals talks to reduce tensions are still possible.
Ministers are drawing up a large-scale evacuation for UK holidaymakers and expats in the Middle East after a wave of cross-border incidents. The PM has cleared US aircraft to use British bases, saying this will help deter further launches while prioritising getting citizens home safely.
Ministers are preparing a mass evacuation of Britons from Gulf states, using air and land corridors via Saudi Arabia amid regional unrest. The PM has allowed an ally to use UK bases for operations, and the FCDO has registered 94,000 nationals for assistance.