UK forces were involved in supporting Israel after Iran launched a missile attack on the country, escalating tensions in the Middle East. Defence Secretary John Healey, who was visiting UK personnel stationed in Cyprus, confirmed that British forces had “played their part in attempts to prevent further escalation,” although he did not provide specific details on their involvement.
Reports suggest that UK fighter jets were part of the response, similar to their involvement in April when Iran previously attacked Israel with missiles. Healey emphasized the UK’s support for Israel’s right to defend itself, noting that the UK stood “fully behind Israel” in the face of threats.
In a statement following the attack, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to Israel’s right to self-defense, condemning Iran’s actions. He also called on Iran to cease its aggression, which had intensified following recent attacks that targeted key figures from Hezbollah and Hamas, as well as a senior Iranian commander.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the missile strike, citing retaliation for the death of these figures in Israeli attacks. Despite the barrage of 180 missiles, Israel confirmed that most were intercepted by its defense systems.
Healey also took the opportunity during his visit to Cyprus to meet with British personnel preparing for potential evacuations of UK nationals from Lebanon, which has been embroiled in violence. Following Israeli ground operations in southern Lebanon, which have resulted in over 1,000 casualties, the UK government has urged British citizens to leave Lebanon immediately. A UK-chartered plane is scheduled to depart Beirut on Wednesday to assist in evacuations.
The situation in the region continues to be volatile, with Hezbollah’s rocket attacks into northern Israel further escalating the conflict. Sir Keir, in a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressed concern over the ongoing violence and reiterated the importance of seeking a ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza. Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak also voiced unwavering support for Israel’s right to defend itself.
As the conflict intensifies, the UK government continues to monitor the situation closely, advising nationals to leave the area while reinforcing its diplomatic and military support for Israel.