Keir Starmer has emphasized that the UK is not being pulled into the broader conflict in the Middle East following a warning from Tehran to Britain.

Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, stated that allowing British military bases to be used by US forces would be seen as an aggressive act. This statement was reportedly made during a tense phone call with Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, as per Iranian state media.

In a Farsi post on Telegram, Araghchi conveyed to Cooper that such actions would be considered as participation in aggression, to be remembered in the history of bilateral relations, while asserting Iran’s right to defend its sovereignty.

Starmer’s spokesperson affirmed that the UK had not partaken in the initial strikes and was not being pulled into a broader conflict. The US was authorized to use UK bases for a specific defensive purpose in response to Iran’s aggression, aiming to address the immediate threat and pave the way for diplomacy.

When asked about concerns regarding the Iranian foreign minister’s remarks, the spokesperson reiterated the UK’s stance of non-involvement in the initial strikes and avoidance of being drawn into a wider war.

The Prime Minister maintained his decision to deny the US request to use UK bases for the initial missile strikes against Tehran, resulting in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader. However, the UK later permitted US jets to operate from British airfields for defensive missions in response to Iran’s retaliatory actions.

Housing Secretary Steve Reed praised the Prime Minister’s measured approach, emphasizing the decision not to engage in the initial attacks but supporting the defense of British nationals.

Foreign Secretary Cooper announced the safe return of over 100,000 stranded British nationals from the Middle East due to the ongoing conflict, with a total of 300,000 Britons registered in the region since the conflict began.

Despite concerns about disruptions in the global oil market, Downing Street advised the public to continue with their normal activities. The International Energy Agency suggested working from home to reduce oil demand globally, but the UK maintained confidence in its diverse and resilient oil supply, encouraging normal daily routines for its citizens.