Keir Starmer has criticized Israel for extensive strikes on Lebanon, expressing concerns about the delicate Iran-US ceasefire hanging in the balance.
The Prime Minister condemned the ongoing attacks by Tel Aviv, labeling them as “inappropriate,” especially as signs of strain appeared in the two-week halt to Donald Trump’s bombing operations. Starmer acknowledged the difficulty in determining if the strikes violated the ceasefire but emphasized the necessity for their cessation.
Shortly after the ceasefire declaration, Israel escalated its hostilities against Hezbollah, an Iran-supported militant group in Lebanon, asserting that it fell outside the ceasefire terms. However, Iran accused Tel Aviv of breaching the agreement.
Starmer also rebuked Donald Trump for his aggressive language towards Tehran and his advocacy for the dismantling of Iranian civilization. He stressed his divergence from such rhetoric, aligning his stance with British values and principles during an interview on ITV’s Talking Politics podcast.
The UK leader made these statements during his Middle East tour where he engaged with allies in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. These Gulf nations faced retaliatory strikes from Iran following the US-Israeli airstrikes, targeting American military installations and energy infrastructure with numerous Iranian missiles and drones.
When questioned about Israel’s attacks on Lebanon potentially violating the ceasefire, Starmer emphasized the moral imperative for the bombings to cease, emphasizing the importance of aligning actions with the ceasefire agreement’s spirit.
Additionally, Starmer emphasized the UK’s vigilance in monitoring the usage of its bases by the US, clarifying that they could only be utilized for defensive purposes. He underscored the need for unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz amid uncertainties surrounding the vital shipping lane’s status.
Concerns were raised about the strait’s accessibility following warnings from the Iranian navy that vessels could face threats, prompting speculation about potential payments to ensure safe passage.
In discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Starmer acknowledged the shock of the attacks and the relief surrounding the ceasefire. However, he emphasized the fragility of the situation, emphasizing the necessity for sustained efforts to uphold the ceasefire and ensure the strait remains open for safe navigation.
Starmer also highlighted the need for transformative actions post-Iran crisis, rejecting a return to the pre-existing status quo and advocating for substantial changes to address longstanding issues in various sectors.
Yvette Cooper cautioned against Iran imposing tolls on the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the importance of respecting international maritime laws and conventions to prevent destabilization in the region.
The Foreign Secretary also warned about Israel’s actions risking regional instability, advocating for Lebanon’s inclusion in the ceasefire to prevent further escalation and promote peace in the area.