LONDON February 28, 2026 – British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has released a video statement addressing the rapidly escalating military situation in the Middle East after the United States and Israel carried out pre-emptive strikes on Iranian targets.
In the video posted on X (formerly Twitter) under the caption “My statement on Iran,” Starmer outlines the UK’s position from 10 Downing Street. The statement aligns with a joint declaration issued by the E3 nations – the United Kingdom, France, and Germany.
Full text of the joint E3 Leaders’ Statement:
“France, Germany and the United Kingdom have consistently urged the Iranian regime to end Iran’s nuclear program, curb its ballistic missile program, refrain from its destabilising activity in the region and our homelands, and to cease the appalling violence and repression against its own people.
“We did not participate in these strikes, but are in close contact with our international partners, including the United States, Israel, and partners in the region.
“We reiterate our commitment to regional stability and to the protection of civilian life.
“We condemn Iranian attacks on countries in the region in the strongest terms. Iran must refrain from indiscriminate military strikes. We call for a resumption of negotiations and urge the Iranian leadership to seek a negotiated solution. Ultimately, the Iranian people must be allowed to determine their future.”
Starmer chaired an emergency COBRA meeting earlier today to coordinate the UK response. Government sources confirmed that British aircraft are operating in the Middle East as part of “co-ordinated regional defensive operations” to protect UK personnel, interests, and allies. Security has also been stepped up at British bases in the region.
A Downing Street spokesperson added: “Iran must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and that is why we have continually supported efforts to reach a negotiated solution.”
The US and Israel described their strikes as necessary to neutralise an imminent nuclear threat from Tehran. Iran has since launched retaliatory missile attacks on targets across the region, prompting international concern over a wider conflict.
Starmer’s statement has sparked immediate debate online, with some critics accusing the government of insufficient support for key allies while others praise the emphasis on de-escalation and diplomacy.
Life News Agency will continue monitoring developments as the situation unfolds.
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