London backs diplomacy, says Iran cannot be allowed nuclear arms

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened an emergency meeting of the government’s Cobra committee following large-scale US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, as tensions rapidly escalated across the Middle East and began affecting international travel and regional security.

Explosions were reported in several Iranian cities, including the capital Tehran, after negotiations aimed at limiting Iran’s nuclear programme collapsed earlier in the week. The United Kingdom did not take part in the military operation. According to Israeli military statements, Iran subsequently launched retaliatory strikes, with explosions and reported attacks occurring in multiple countries hosting US facilities.

A UK government spokesperson reiterated that Iran “must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon,” stressing that London continues to support a negotiated diplomatic solution. Officials said the government’s immediate priority is ensuring the safety of British nationals in the region and providing consular assistance, while warning against further escalation into a wider regional conflict.

The UK Foreign Office issued urgent security guidance, instructing British citizens in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates to shelter in place following reports of missile attacks. UK nationals in Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Oman were advised to remain vigilant and follow local safety instructions.

Regional tensions quickly disrupted aviation. Major airlines diverted or cancelled flights across the Middle East amid safety concerns. British Airways suspended services to Tel Aviv and Bahrain until Wednesday and cancelled flights to Amman, while one Doha-bound flight carrying more than 200 passengers was forced to return to Heathrow Airport mid-journey. Virgin Atlantic cancelled a Heathrow–Dubai service and warned of longer routes to several destinations, while Wizz Air halted flights to Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Amman. Qatar Airways temporarily suspended operations to and from Doha after Qatari airspace was closed, and Emirates also paused flights linked to Dubai.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump described the strikes as the start of “major combat operations” and urged Iranian forces to lay down their arms, while Iran’s Supreme National Security Council pledged a “crushing” response.

Political reactions in Britain were divided. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch voiced support for the United States and Israel, while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said he was praying for a positive outcome for the Iranian people as the conflict intensified.

By Tamilla Hasanova