LONDON: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated that the United Kingdom does not believe in the concept of regime change through aerial bombardment.
He further mentioned that his government’s decision not to participate directly in ongoing United States and Israeli military actions against Iran.
Prime Minister Starmer clarified that Britain had declined to join the current US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, focusing on that his government does not support efforts aimed at removing governments through air power.
He made these statements during an address to Parliament, where he outlined the principles guiding the UK’s foreign and defense policy.
“The government does not endorse actions that seek to overthrow a country’s leadership through airstrikes,” Starmer told lawmakers.
He added that historical experience demonstrates the importance of ensuring a clear legal basis before engaging in any form of military intervention.
The Prime Minister stressed that British troops would not be deployed in any military operation unless he is fully satisfied that such action complies with international law.
He underlined the need for careful legal and strategic consideration before committing armed forces to conflict.
However, while ruling out direct participation in offensive operations, the British government has permitted the United States to use certain UK military bases for defensive purposes.
In this sense, American forces have been granted authorization to conduct defensive operations from British bases, specifically targeting Iranian missile sites considered a threat.
The decision has triggered political debate within the United Kingdom. The issue of military base access has also strained relations between London and Washington.
Starmer reasserted that his government remains committed to acting responsibly, upholding international law, and avoiding escalation.
