British premier defends decision not to join US-Israel strikes on Iran
Baku, March 5, AZERTAC
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday defended the decision not to join US-Israel strikes on Iran, saying the best solution to the issue is "a negotiated settlement with Iran, where they give up their nuclear ambitions," Anadolu Agency reported.
Speaking at a Downing Street news conference, Starmer defended his decision not to join offensive strikes on Iran carried out by the US and Israel.
He said the UK's position remained focused on diplomacy rather than military escalation. “Now, that's why I took the decision that the UK would not join the initial strikes on Iran by the US and Israel,” he noted.
The UK will “stand firm” by its values despite international pressure over military action against Iran, he added.
However, the government is increasing its military presence in the Gulf region. Starmer announced that four additional Typhoon fighter jets will be deployed to Qatar following requests from allies.
He said the move was part of efforts “to strengthen our defensive operations in Qatar and across the region.”
Asked whether the UK’s stance of defensive military activity rather than offensive action could change, the prime minister did not give a direct answer.
Instead, he said the government is continuing to work closely with allies and the United States and has been doing so “for some time.”
“The US is using military bases to launch the strikes into Iran,” he said, adding: “That is the understanding and arrangements that we've got in place.”
Starmer also insisted that his decision not to take part in the strikes was carefully considered. “Now, that decision was deliberate. It was in the national interest, and I stand by it,” he said.
He added that he would “stand firm” by British values and principles, “no matter the pressure to do otherwise.”
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