British forces are actively engaged in defensive operations in the Middle East, Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed on February 28, 2026, as tensions escalate following a series of strikes between the United States, Israel, and Iran. The developments underscore growing regional instability and raise concerns about a wider conflict.
Speaking to Parliament, Starmer confirmed the United Kingdom did not participate directly in the U.S. And Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. However, he emphasized the UK’s commitment to the security of its allies and stated that British planes are “in the sky” as part of coordinated defensive efforts. “We have long been clear – the regime in Iran is utterly abhorrent,” Starmer said. “They have murdered thousands of their own people, brutally crushed dissent, and sought to destabilize the region.”
Starmer explained his decision-making process, stating, “I believe that an agreement where Iran gives up its desire to develop nuclear weapons and ends steps to destabilize the region is best for the region. That has been the position of all British governments for a long time. Trump did not agree with my decision not to participate in the strikes. My duty is to assess the national interests of Britain. I did, and I stand by my decision.”
The Prime Minister detailed the threat posed by Iran, noting that countries in the Gulf, even those not directly involved in the conflict, were targeted with thousands of drones and missiles. He also cited a recent incident on Saturday, February 28, where a British military base in Bahrain, housing 300 personnel, was targeted, with some projectiles landing within hundreds of meters of the base.
Starmer also addressed an attack originating from Lebanon by Hezbollah against Israel, characterizing it as an attempt to escalate tensions. He further revealed that the Akrotiri British base in the Republic of Cyprus was also targeted. “This proves important for me to say that our US bomber aircraft were not using our bases in Cyprus. The security of our friends and allies in Cyprus is also critical to us,” he stated. He clarified that assessments indicate the drone involved in the attack on Akrotiri was launched before the UK’s public statements, according to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office.
“Irak’tan hepimiz ders çıkardık”
Starmer dismissed the notion that the removal of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would necessarily halt Iran’s destabilizing actions, suggesting it could even lead to more reckless behavior. “They are not only deliberately targeting our military presence, but they are also working on economic targets in the region,” he said.
In response, Starmer confirmed that British warplanes were scrambled for defensive purposes. He reported that Iranian missiles and drones targeting a British military base in Iraq were intercepted. “The only way to stop the Iranian threat is to destroy the missiles at the source, in the depot or on the launch ramp,” he stated. He added that the U.S. Requested permission to apply British bases for defensive purposes, a request the UK granted to intercept Iranian rockets targeting countries not involved in the conflict.
Drawing a parallel to past conflicts, Starmer cautioned, “We all remember the mistakes in Iraq, we have all learned lessons.”
“Görevimiz bölgede tansiyonu düşürmek”
Responding to questions from lawmakers, Starmer addressed the possibility of regime change in Iran, stating, “Our government does not believe that regime change will come from the air.” He emphasized the need for a legal basis and clear plan for any potential British involvement in strikes against Iran, stating, “If I am not sure that there is a reliable legal basis for our military to seize action, make a decision.”
Starmer concluded by asserting that the future of Iran should be determined by the Iranian people. “Our duty is to de-escalate tensions in the region and in the world,” he said. The announcement could influence future diplomatic talks and international efforts to contain the conflict.
