Starmer defends decision not to join US and Israeli strikes on Iran
Mar 2nd 2026
Prime Minister Keir Starmer told the House of Commons the UK deliberately stayed out of US and Israeli strikes on Iran to protect British lives and pursue a negotiated outcome while responding to new threats.
- Starmer told MPs the UK did not take part in the initial US and Israeli strikes on Iran and said the decision was deliberate.
- He said the choice was based on collective self-defense, protecting British lives and seeking a negotiated settlement.
- Starmer said he must judge what is in Britain’s national interest and stood by his decision despite criticism from US President Donald Trump.
- He warned Iran’s response now poses a threat to UK people, interests and allies and pointed to attacks on UK forces in the region.
- Around 200,000 British citizens are in the Middle East and their safety is a major concern for the government.
- Starmer confirmed no one was hurt in a drone strike on RAF Akrotiri, said Cyprus bases are not being used by US bombers, and said the drone was launched before the UK announcement.