The PM urged the US to open talks with Iran to de‑escalate tensions after incidents against Western allies in the region. He affirmed the UK’s backing for sanctions and regional security, warned retaliation could spiral, and said diplomacy must run alongside deterrence.
During a visit to RAF Akrotiri, the Defence Secretary took cover as sirens sounded amid a drone threat. F-35Bs were on standby. He warned of an increasing threat from Iran and refused to rule out UK involvement in potential military action, as ministers weigh responses and the risk of wider escalation.
Authorities ordered residents of southern Beirut to evacuate, citing imminent military action against sites linked to an armed group. Foreign embassies urged departures. Gridlock and limited shelter capacity raised concern for those unable to leave, amid fears of broader escalation.
The PM faces criticism over delays in repatriating about 14,000 UK nationals stranded by a regional crisis. He’s said not to have spoken with the US President since the outset. A Royal Navy destroyer is positioned near Cyprus to support efforts as routes home are assessed.
After UK bases in Bahrain and Cyprus were targeted, Kemi Badenoch urges a more assertive stance against a hostile Middle East regime, saying Britain cannot rely on others. She will outline higher defence spending to reassure allies who fear the UK is stepping back.
Emergency alerts in the UAE ordered people to shelter, with residents and visitors moving to basements. Rising regional tensions closed airspace and disrupted global flights. The UK adjusted its defence posture, moving RAF assets to the Gulf as ministers urged calm.
Washington, working with Gulf partners, plans to buy mass‑produced, low‑cost drone interceptors from a European ally to counter one‑way drones used by a regional adversary, as pricey missile stocks dwindle. Talks involve the UAE and Qatar, with rapid scaling to strengthen Western and Gulf air defences.
The PM pledged to protect Britons by boosting RAF deployments and arranging more mercy flights to repatriate those stranded overseas. While families reunited at airports, the first government rescue effort faced criticism as disorganised, prompting a review.