The United Kingdom has declined to state whether it considers the US-Israeli strikes on Iran to be legal, as missile attacks continue across the Middle East. Defence Secretary John Healey repeatedly avoided answering questions on the matter during interviews on Sunday.
Iran has vowed to retaliate with its “most intense operation” ever following the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in the strikes. The 86-year-old had ruled Iran for nearly 37 years. Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf promised “such devastating blows” in response, while US President Donald Trump warned of unprecedented force if Iran continues its retaliation.
Mr Healey confirmed that Iranian missiles and drones had landed near British bases in Bahrain and were fired towards Cyprus, where thousands of UK personnel are based. He stated, “We don’t believe they were targeted at Cyprus, but nevertheless, it’s an example of how there is a very real and rising threat.” British aircraft have been deployed on defensive operations, and a counter-drone team in northern Iraq shot down Iranian drones.
When asked six times by the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg whether the UK backed the strikes or believed they were legal, Mr Healey declined to give a direct answer, saying, “It is for the US to set out the legal basis of the action that it took.” The Government, along with France and Germany, has condemned Iran’s retaliation and urged a return to negotiations.
The Government’s reluctance has drawn criticism from both the left and right. Green Party leader Zack Polanski branded the attacks “illegal and unprovoked,” while Conservative shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel said the Government should have been “more proactive” in supporting the strikes. The UK has not confirmed whether the US requested permission to use British bases, including Diego Garcia.
