British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed his decision not to involve the United Kingdom in the joint United States and Israel attack on Iran. He also refused to allow American aircraft to use British bases for the operation. Starmer explained his stance at a press conference on March 5, 2026, aiming to reassure a concerned public amid rising tensions.

During the briefing, Starmer emphasized that his goal was to provide calm and prudent leadership in the national interest. He stated that the UK must have the strength to stand firmly by its values and principles regardless of external pressure. His remarks were seen as a signal that he would not yield to pressure from US President Donald Trump.

Starmer reiterated that the UK’s long-standing position on Iran is to seek a resolution through dialogue, encouraging Iran to halt its nuclear program. He described his decision to stay out of the initial wave of attacks as a carefully considered move made in the national interest.