The British government has stated its desire for a ‘peaceful transition’ of power in Iran, as protests against the regime continue to be met with a violent security crackdown. The comments come amid heightened international tension, including threats of military intervention from former US President Donald Trump.
UK Ministers Outline Stance on Iranian Unrest
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasised the need to stem the current violence in Iran, describing the state as hostile and repressive. While she declined to comment directly on US foreign policy, she told Sky News that the immediate priority was to end the bloodshed against protesters.
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch adopted a firmer line. In an interview with the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, she stated she would ‘not have an issue’ with seeing the Iranian regime removed, citing its attempts to harm the UK and its global network of terrorist proxies like Hezbollah. She argued that given the threat, it could be right for the US and its allies to be involved in a process of regime change.
Protests Defy Escalating Crackdown
Despite an internet blackout imposed by authorities, demonstrators have continued to take to the streets across Iran. At least 62 people are reported killed and 2,300 detained in weeks of protests initially sparked by economic anger. Videos from Tehran show crowds chanting ‘Death to Khamenei’, a direct challenge to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported that more than 570 protests have occurred across all of Iran’s 31 provinces. In a significant development, the speaker of Iran’s parliament, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, warned that US military and Israeli targets would be ‘legitimate’ for retaliation if America strikes the Islamic Republic.
International Reactions and Warnings
The situation has drawn sharp international responses. Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to intervene if Iranian authorities kill protesters, stating the US was ‘ready to help’. In the UK, Labour leader Keir Starmer has condemned the killing of protesters and urged Tehran to exercise restraint.
A UK government spokesperson reiterated deep concern over the violence against peaceful protesters, stating they are monitoring the situation closely. The unfolding crisis presents a major diplomatic challenge, balancing calls for human rights with the risks of regional escalation.
