The UK is deploying jets and other military assets to the Middle East, the Prime Minister of the UK, Sir Keir Starmer, confirmed during the G7 summit currently taking place in Canada.
Starmer stated that the additional Typhoon fighters and air-to-air refuelling aircraft were being sent “for contingency support across the region.” He refused to rule out British military involvement, adding, “I will always make the right decisions for the UK.”
Starmer’s move follows a deadly exchange of strikes between Israel and Iran on a fifth day of conflict. According to CNN, in Iran, at least 224 people have been killed since hostilities began. Meanwhile in Israel, 24 people have been killed.
Tehran has warned the UK, US and France that their military assets in the region could be targeted if they support Israel.
BBC reported that Starmer’s repeated the UK’s central message, stating, “Our constant message is de-escalate.”