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Starmer Urged to Confront Iran Amid Rising Middle East Tensions
Keir Starmer is facing increasing pressure to challenge Iran, with warnings that Britain could become the next target. Israeli President Isaac Herzog hinted Tehran’s weapons of mass destruction might someday be directed at the UK, as he sought to galvanize British backing for his nation. This appeal arrives amid uncertainty over potential British involvement in any Middle East military action, with potential implications for regional stability.
UK’s Stance on Middle East Conflict
Speculation has arisen regarding potential US reliance on the British-controlled base on Diego Garcia in the Chagos Islands should military intervention occur. The Prime Minister has acknowledged a “significant risk of escalation” in the conflict and advocated for diplomatic resolutions among all parties.
Diplomatic Efforts Intensify
Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy is engaging with counterparts from Iran, France, Germany, and the EU in Geneva today (June 20), as diplomatic endeavors to facilitate a cessation of hostilities between Iran and Israel gain momentum. This follows Lammy’s meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington DC the previous day.
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Herzog’s Appeal for “Moral Clarity”
During his address at the presidential palace in Jerusalem, President Herzog emphasized the critical nature of the situation, stating:
- “There are matters Britain cannot overlook. It is evident.”
- “I believe the British leadership needs to consider more than just demonstrations or opinions. We must demonstrate unambiguous moral clarity.”
Speaking to the tabloid press, Herzog asserted that Israel’s current conflict serves to safeguard the UK’s long-term security. He questioned Iran’s rationale for possessing missiles capable of reaching London.
The “Now or Never” Moment
The Israeli president posed the question: “Why? If London isn’t an adversary, why possess such weapons?” Herzog posited that it is “now or never” to curb Iran, suggesting Europe will be the next target.
Legal Concerns Regarding UK Involvement
It has been reported that Attorney General Lord Hermer has voiced legal anxieties regarding any British involvement in the conflict beyond the scope of defending its allies. Such concerns could constrain the backing extended to the US should President Trump pursue military action.
Labour’s Approach to De-escalation
Sir Keir stated on Thursday:
“It’s unequivocally clear that we must address the nuclear program. However, I firmly believe that a negotiated resolution is the preferred path. We need to de-escalate and strive toward that point.”
“There have been ongoing discussions with the US. To me, that represents the optimal approach to resolve this matter.”
Calls for a “Tough Approach” to Iran
Concurrently, two Labour backbenchers have pushed for a “new, robust approach” towards Tehran. Jon Pearce and Mike Tapp, respectively the chairman and vice-chairman of Labour Friends of Israel, emphasized that the UK urgently requires “a multifaceted diplomatic, economic, and national security plan to protect against the Iranian threat and compel the regime to alter its course.”
Demands for Sanctions and Diplomatic Solutions
In an article published in a reputable national newspaper, the pair advocated for:
- Stricter sanctions on Iran
- The proscription of the country’s Revolutionary Guard Corps
- A “comprehensive diplomatic solution” that “eliminates, once and for all,” Iran’s nuclear threat
Iran’s Nuclear Claims
Tehran has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, denying any intention to develop nuclear weapons. In contrast, Israel is widely believed to have nuclear weapons within its own arsenal.