UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has chaired an emergency Cobra meeting following US and Israeli air strikes on Iran, as tensions escalate across the Middle East.
Explosions were reported in multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran, after diplomatic efforts to curb Iran’s nuclear programme ended without agreement earlier this week.
The UK government confirmed it did not participate in the strikes. A spokesperson said Britain’s priority is protecting its interests and nationals in the region, adding: “We do not want to see further escalation into a wider regional conflict.”
Safety Warnings for UK Nationals
The UK Foreign Office has issued urgent guidance to British nationals in several Gulf states.
UK citizens in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates have been told to shelter in place. Those in Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Oman have been urged to remain vigilant and follow local safety advice.
Explosions and air raid sirens were reported in Doha, Qatar, which hosts a major US military facility. Qatari officials said missiles had been intercepted. Bahraini state media also reported a missile attack near the US Navy’s 5th Fleet service centre.
Trump: “Major Combat Operations”
US President Donald Trump described the strikes as the beginning of “major combat operations” and urged Iranian forces to stand down. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council vowed a “crushing” response.
Travel Disruption Across the Region
Airlines have diverted or cancelled flights amid rising security concerns.
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British Airways suspended flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain until Wednesday, and cancelled Saturday services to Amman.
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Virgin Atlantic cancelled a Heathrow-to-Dubai flight and warned of longer routes to India, Saudi Arabia and the Maldives.
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Wizz Air suspended flights to Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Amman.
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Qatar Airways temporarily halted flights to and from Doha following Qatari airspace closures.
Heathrow Airport has advised passengers to check directly with airlines for updates.
Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch voiced support for the US and Israel, calling Iran’s government a threat.
The situation remains fluid, with governments across Europe monitoring developments closely amid fears of further escalation.
