UK convenes emergency meeting after US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran

Saturday 28 February 2026 - 12:39

By: Dakir Madiha

UK convenes emergency meeting after US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called an emergency Cobra meeting to assess Britain’s response to coordinated United States and Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear sites. The strikes, described by Washington and Tel Aviv as preemptive, come amid escalating cross-border attacks across the Middle East.

The UK government confirmed that British forces did not take part in the operation. A Downing Street spokesperson said London continues to support diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Officials emphasized that the immediate priority is the protection of British nationals in the Gulf, with embassies providing round-the-clock consular support.

Following Iranian retaliation against US military facilities and allied installations, the Foreign Office urged UK citizens in Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to shelter in place. Travel warnings were updated for Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. Several airlines, including Wizz Air, Qatar Airways, and Virgin Atlantic, suspended flights to and from the Middle East, citing security risks.

Although the United Kingdom stayed out of the initial attacks, the Guardian reported that RAF Typhoons were deployed to Qatar and six F-35 fighters to the airbase in Cyprus to bolster regional air defense. The Ministry of Defence said the reinforcement is intended to protect allied assets and deter further escalation.

Labour MP Emily Thornberry, who chairs the Foreign Affairs Committee, told the BBC that the UK should avoid direct involvement. She questioned the legality of the airstrikes and warned that British forces could still be exposed if Iran targets Western bases across the region. Thornberry noted that the UK maintains longstanding military presences in Bahrain, Oman, the UAE, and Qatar.