The UK is sending Typhoon fighter jets and refuelling aircraft to the Middle East to support stability in the region. The move follows increasing tensions between Israel and Iran.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the deployment aims to provide contingency support in case the conflict escalates. Iran has warned that it may target Western bases, including those operated by the UK, if British forces assist Israeli operations.
British military assets are already active in the region, including RAF aircraft, naval ships and permanent bases. The Ministry of Defence has now deployed extra refuelling aircraft from UK bases and plans to send more jets shortly.
UK deploys jets in move aimed at de-escalation
On his way to the G7 Summit in Canada, Starmer told reporters that the situation remains “intense” and “fast-moving.” He said his top priority is to prevent further escalation.
“We are moving assets, including jets, to the region to provide support if needed,” he said. “As Prime Minister, I will act in the UK’s best interests and meet our obligations with a clear head.”
Starmer declined to share specific operational details but confirmed that he and Foreign Secretary David Lammy are in constant talks with international partners. Lammy has also held discussions with Iranian officials.
“Our message to all sides is consistent: reduce tensions,” Starmer said. “Everything we do supports that goal.”
G7 leaders to discuss conflict and regional security
The UK helped Israel conduct strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen last year, but has not supported recent attacks on Iran. When asked why the UK did not assist Israel in intercepting Iranian missiles, Starmer said his focus is on calming the situation.
Reports suggest that Israel did not warn the UK in advance of its latest strike on Iran. Starmer would not confirm or deny this but said discussions with allies on such issues remain frequent and detailed.
On Friday, Starmer spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He described the conversation as constructive and said it covered Israel’s safety and wider regional concerns.
The Prime Minister expects conflict-related talks to feature heavily at the G7 Summit. He has already spoken with leaders from France, Germany, and the United States. After a call with President Donald Trump, Starmer said both leaders expressed concern about rising tensions.
“There’s clear concern about where this could lead,” he said. “The impact on the region and beyond is obvious to all.”
At the summit, Starmer plans to raise UK concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme and the link between the current tensions and Israeli actions in Gaza, which the British government has criticised. He also wants to push for an end to the violence.
“These talks are already happening, but the G7 allows for frank discussions in person,” he said.
