Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declared that international allies must collectively "deal with" Iran's severe repression of anti-government demonstrators, which has resulted in significant casualties. This statement comes amidst heightened military movements by the United States in the Gulf region, underscoring escalating global tensions.
UK Backs Goal of Preventing Nuclear Proliferation
During a press engagement, Sir Keir emphasised that the United Kingdom firmly supports "the goal" of ensuring Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons capability. He described this objective as "hugely important" for international security, aligning with broader diplomatic efforts to curb proliferation risks.
Condemnation of Protest Crackdown
The Prime Minister characterised Iran's violent response to domestic protests as "grotesque," noting that the situation demands urgent attention from the global community. He highlighted that the UK's focus remains on addressing both the nuclear issue and the humanitarian crisis unfolding within Iran's borders.
When questioned about potential British support for additional US military strikes against Iranian targets, Sir Keir maintained a cautious stance. He reiterated that the UK endorses the overarching aim of denuclearisation and is actively consulting with allies on the most effective strategies to achieve this outcome.
US Military Pressure Intensifies
President Donald Trump has recently amplified warnings to Tehran, declaring that time is running out to negotiate a satisfactory agreement on its nuclear programme. He has called for an immediate cessation of what he termed "senseless killing" of protesters by Iranian authorities.
In a significant show of force, the US administration disclosed the deployment of a "massive armada" to the Middle East, spearheaded by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. President Trump issued a stark ultimatum, urging Iran to engage in talks for a "fair and equitable deal" that includes abandoning its nuclear ambitions, or face severe consequences.
Humanitarian Toll and Information Blackout
Inside Iran, the government's brutal crackdown on widespread urban protests has led to thousands of fatalities and injuries in recent weeks. Accurate casualty figures are difficult to ascertain due to a sustained internet blackout imposed by Iranian authorities, which hampers independent verification.
According to estimates from US-based Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRANA), the number of confirmed deaths has reached approximately 6,126, with the vast majority—around 5,777—being protesters. These statistics underscore the severe human cost of the ongoing unrest and governmental repression.
European Union and UK Policy Responses
In reaction to the violent crackdown, the European Union announced this week that it will designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation. This decision has prompted renewed calls for the United Kingdom to implement similar measures against the state-backed group.
Last May, then-Home Secretary Yvette Cooper revealed plans to create new legal powers enabling the proscription of state-affiliated groups deemed threatening to British security, following recommendations from terror watchdog Jonathan Hall KC. Government sources indicate that proposed legislation will be introduced when parliamentary scheduling permits, though specific groups for potential banning have not been publicly confirmed.
Downing Street's Reserved Position
When pressed by journalists on whether serious consideration is being given to proscribing the IRGC specifically, a Number 10 spokesman declined to comment, citing the long-standing policy of successive governments not to discuss matters related to proscription. The official affirmed that the UK stands ready to impose additional sanctions if the crackdown persists and continues to collaborate with international partners to counter threats posed by Iran.
