UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called on Iran to refrain from retaliating against Israel following a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting military sites in Iran.
Speaking at a press conference in Samoa, Starmer emphasized the importance of avoiding further regional escalation, stating, “I am clear that Israel has the right to defend itself against Iranian aggression.
I’m equally clear that we need to avoid further regional escalation and urge all sides to show restraint.”
The UK government is closely monitoring the situation and has reaffirmed its support for Israel’s right to self-defense, provided it adheres to international humanitarian law.
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The strikes targeted missile-manufacturing facilities linked to recent Iranian missile attacks on Israel, but Israeli officials confirmed that they did not target nuclear or oil facilities.
In the wake of the airstrikes, Iranian officials reported limited damage from the attacks, which affected military bases in the provinces of Ilam, Khuzestan, and Tehran.
Concurrently, Syrian state media reported missile barrages targeting military sites, with some intercepted by Syrian air defenses.
An Israeli military spokesperson reiterated that Iran and its proxies have been attacking Israel and stated that Israel has the right and duty to respond.
Two U.S. officials confirmed there was no American involvement in the airstrikes but emphasized the U.S. commitment to Israel’s security.
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U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed this commitment during a call with Israel’s defense minister, expressing determination to prevent any escalation of the conflict.
As tensions escalate in the region, Starmer’s appeal for restraint highlights the delicate balance of international relations amid ongoing hostilities.
