UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has called on Iran to return to the negotiating table following the US bombing of its nuclear sites. In a statement, Starmer emphasized the importance of stability in the region, describing Iran’s nuclear program as “a grave threat to international security”.
The UK prime minister was informed of the US strikes in advance and understands that there was no UK involvement in the operation.
“Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and the US has taken action to alleviate that threat,” Starmer added, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The US carried out strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities: Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow, following the launch of a new Israeli operation against Iran on June 12.
US President Donald Trump described the operation as a “spectacular military success” in a televised address, warning Iran of “far greater” attacks if it doesn’t make peace quickly. “If Iran does not make peace quickly, it would face far greater attacks,” Trump said, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi condemned the US strikes as “outrageous” and said they would have “everlasting consequences”. “Each and every member of the UN must be alarmed over this extremely dangerous, lawless and criminal behavior,” he added, criticizing the US action.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern over the US strikes, calling them a “dangerous escalation”. The situation has raised tensions in the region, with Iran launching retaliatory strikes against Israel.
The US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities are part of Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign, aimed at penalizing Iran for its nuclear ambitions. This strategy has been criticized for its potential to escalate tensions and harm the Iranian people.
Experts warn that the situation could lead to further conflict, with Iran potentially seeking to solidify its strategic alliances with Russia and China. The humanitarian consequences of economic sanctions on Iran have been severe, with record inflation, food scarcity, and limited access to healthcare.
In this volatile situation, diplomatic efforts are crucial to prevent further escalation. Starmer’s call for Iran to return to the negotiating table highlights the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.