Keir Starmer has criticized Israel for launching extensive attacks on Lebanon, expressing concerns about the fragile Iran-US ceasefire being at risk.
The Prime Minister denounced Tel Aviv’s ongoing bombardment as inappropriate, with uncertainties arising during the two-week hiatus in Donald Trump’s airstrike campaign. Starmer acknowledged the difficulty in determining if the attacks violate the ceasefire but emphasized the necessity for them to cease.
Shortly after the ceasefire declaration, Israel escalated its hostilities against Hezbollah in Lebanon, an Iran-backed militant group, claiming the actions were beyond the ceasefire terms. However, Iran accused Tel Aviv of breaching the agreement.
Starmer also rebuked Donald Trump for his aggressive language towards Tehran and calls for the dismantling of Iranian civilization. He emphasized that such language does not align with British values and principles.
During his Middle East visit, Starmer met with allies in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. These Gulf nations have been targeted by retaliatory strikes from Iran following the US-Israeli bombing, resulting in attacks on US military installations and energy facilities.
Regarding Israel’s attacks on Lebanon, Starmer stressed the imperative to stop them, emphasizing the breach of principles rather than technicalities. He highlighted the importance of including such actions in the ceasefire agreement.
In terms of UK involvement, Starmer mentioned monitoring the US bases’ use, emphasizing the commitment to collective self-defense only. He reiterated the principles of non-participation in offensive actions and the exclusive use of bases for defensive purposes.
Ensuring the free passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz was underscored by Starmer, emphasizing that it should be open for safe navigation without tolls. There were concerns raised about potential attacks on vessels by the Iranian navy, questioning the need for payments for secure passage.
After discussions with regional leaders, Starmer conveyed a sense of shock over the attacks on Gulf countries and the relief following the ceasefire announcement. He emphasized the fragility of the ceasefire and the need for sustained efforts to maintain peace.
Starmer emphasized the necessity for change post-Iran crisis, highlighting the ineffectiveness of returning to the status quo. He stressed the importance of responding decisively in various critical areas instead of reverting to previous norms.
Yvette Cooper warned against Iran imposing tolls on the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the transit route’s international status and the prohibition of unilateral toll applications.
The Foreign Secretary cautioned that Israel’s actions in Lebanon could destabilize the region, advocating for Lebanon’s inclusion in the ceasefire to prevent further escalation and restore peace.
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