PM calls for diplomacy after US obliterates three nuclear sites in dramatic escalation
Sir Keir Starmer has declared stability in the Middle East “a priority” as world leaders scrambled to respond to America’s dramatic air strikes that “completely and fully obliterated” Iran’s key nuclear facilities.
The British Prime Minister’s measured response came after Donald Trump ordered devastating attacks on three Iranian nuclear sites early Sunday morning – a move that’s sent shockwaves across the globe and sparked fears of all-out war in the region.
Speaking from Downing Street, Starmer backed the US action but stressed the urgent need for de-escalation, calling on Iran to “return to the negotiating table” to “reach a diplomatic solution to end this crisis.”
Trump’s Triumphant Declaration
In a dramatic address from the White House, flanked by Vice President JD Vance and his top security team, Trump boasted of America’s military might in no uncertain terms.
Iran’s key nuclear enrichment facilities have been completely and totally obliterated,” the President declared, warning Tehran that further strikes could follow if they dare to retaliate.
The strikes targeted Iran’s most sensitive nuclear installations at Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, using B-2 stealth bombers and massive bunker-busting bombs in what military experts called one of the most significant attacks on a sovereign nation’s nuclear programme in history.
Britain Walks Diplomatic Tightrope
Starmer’s response highlighted Britain’s delicate balancing act – supporting its closest ally while desperately trying to prevent a wider conflagration that could engulf the entire Middle East.
“Iran’s nuclear programme is a grave threat to international security. Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and the US has taken action to alleviate that threat,” the PM said in a carefully worded statement.
But he was quick to add: “The situation in the Middle East remains volatile and stability in the region is a priority.”
The Prime Minister’s emphasis on stability reflects growing concerns in Whitehall that the conflict could spiral out of control, potentially dragging Britain into another Middle Eastern war.
World Leaders Sound Alarm
As news of the strikes spread, world leaders rushed to respond – with reactions ranging from outright condemnation to nervous support.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued one of the strongest warnings, calling it a “dangerous escalation in a region already on the edge” and a “direct threat to international peace and security.
There is a growing risk that this conflict could rapidly get out of control – with catastrophic consequences for civilians, the region, and the world,” Guterres warned, urging all nations to “de-escalate and to uphold their obligations under the UN Charter.
Middle East Powers Condemn ‘Illegal Aggression’
Regional powers were even more scathing in their criticism. Oman, which had been painstakingly mediating nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran, branded the strikes “illegal aggression” and a “serious violation of international law.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry warned of potentially “catastrophic consequences at both the regional and international levels,” expressing “grave concern” about the escalating tensions.
The United Arab Emirates, typically more aligned with Western interests, also expressed “deep concern” over the targeting of Iranian sovereignty, calling for “maximum restraint” from all parties.
Allies Urge Return to Diplomacy
Even America’s traditional allies struck cautious notes. New Zealand’s foreign ministry acknowledged Trump’s announcement but stressed that “diplomacy will deliver a more enduring resolution than further military action.
We urge all parties to return to talks,” the Kiwi statement read, reflecting widespread international anxiety about where the conflict might lead.
France called the strikes “concerning” and urged immediate diplomatic engagement, while Germany expressed worry about the potential for “uncontrollable escalation.
Netanyahu’s Victory Lap
One leader who didn’t hide his enthusiasm was Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who congratulated Trump for what he called a historic decision.
Your bold decision to target Iran’s nuclear facilities with the awesome and righteous might of the United States will change history,” Netanyahu declared. History will record that President Trump acted to deny the world’s most dangerous regime the world’s most dangerous weapons.
Iran Vows ‘Everlasting Consequences’
Iran’s response was swift and furious. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi branded the strikes “outrageous” and warned they would have “everlasting consequences.
The United States, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, has committed a grave violation of the UN Charter, international law and the Non-Proliferation Treaty,” Iran’s atomic agency declared.
Tehran has already launched retaliatory missile strikes on Israel, with at least 16 people reported injured in attacks on Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Markets Brace for Chaos
Financial markets are already feeling the heat, with oil prices spiking on fears Iran could retaliate by closing the Strait of Hormuz – a vital shipping lane through which 20% of the world’s oil passes.
This could set us on a path towards $100 oil if Iran responds as they have previously threatened,” one analyst warned, predicting economic shockwaves that could hit British consumers hard at the petrol pumps.
What Happens Next?
As Sunday dawned, the world held its breath. With Trump threatening more strikes, Iran vowing revenge, and missiles already flying, the coming hours could determine whether the Middle East descends into all-out war.
For Starmer, who’s been in office less than a year, it’s his biggest foreign policy test yet. The PM has scheduled an emergency COBRA meeting to discuss Britain’s response, with particular focus on the Diego Garcia military base that could potentially be used for further US operations.
The Prime Minister’s call for stability may sound measured, but behind closed doors, British officials are reportedly working frantically to prevent a catastrophe that could make the Iraq War look like a minor skirmish.
As one senior diplomat put it: “We’re standing on the edge of a precipice. One wrong move and the entire region could go up in flames.”
Title: Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosts Council of Nations and Regions
Author: Lauren Hurley / No 10 Downing Street
Date & Location: 23 May 2025, Lancaster House, London, United Kingdom en.m.wikipedia.org+1commons.wikimedia.org+1
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