PM stands by decision not to join strikes on Iran and sends more jets to Qatar

"The UK had 'the strength to stand by our values and our principles no matter the pressure to do otherwise'. The UK's longstanding position was that the best way forward was a 'negotiated settlement with Iran where they give up their nuclear ambitions', with efforts made to 'de-escalate' the conflict."

"Look, the special relationship is in operation right now. We're sharing intelligence on a 24/7 basis in the usual way. That is the special relationship. The UK agreed on Sunday to a US request to use British military bases but only for defensive strikes on Iranian missile sites."

"We will do everything we can to protect British lives. The PM denied the UK was not prepared for the conflict, pointing out that Britain began pre-deploying assets to the region earlier this year - particularly Qatar and Cyprus - alongside the US and other allies."

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer defended the UK's refusal to participate in initial US-Israel strikes against Iran, emphasizing that diplomatic negotiation and de-escalation represent the best path forward. He stated the UK maintains its longstanding position of seeking a negotiated settlement where Iran abandons nuclear ambitions. Despite criticism from US President Donald Trump, who called the decision shocking and questioned the UK's commitment, Starmer insisted the special relationship between the US and UK remains intact, citing ongoing 24/7 intelligence sharing. The UK subsequently agreed to allow US use of British bases for defensive strikes. Starmer announced deployment of four additional Typhoon fighter jets to Qatar and acknowledged public concerns about British citizens in the region.

Read at www.bbc.com