By Political Reporter, DhakaGate International Desk:
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has called on Iran to seize a diplomatic "off-ramp" and return to negotiations following US strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities—Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordo—over the weekend. Iran has warned of "everlasting consequences" in response to the US action, which aimed to disrupt its nuclear program.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Lammy revealed he had directly urged Iran’s foreign minister to convey a message to Tehran’s leadership, warning that retaliating by attacking US bases or blockading the Strait of Hormuz would be a "catastrophic mistake." He emphasized the need for Iran to engage seriously with the E3 (UK, Germany, France) and the US to address its nuclear program.
"They must take the off-ramp being offered," Lammy said, stressing that diplomacy remains the only viable solution, as Iran’s nuclear expertise and materials persist despite the strikes. He highlighted concerns over Iran’s 60% uranium enrichment, verified by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which suggests potential weapons development. "A nuclear-armed Iran would lead to proliferation across the Middle East, making the world far more dangerous," he added.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, while clarifying the UK’s non-involvement in the US strikes, reiterated calls for de-escalation to stabilize the region and shield the UK economy from energy price spikes. "We are absolutely focused on de-escalation," he said, underscoring the broader implications of escalation.
While the US acted unilaterally, Lammy avoided directly endorsing the strikes’ legality, stating there was "no moral equivalence" with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which the UK deems illegal. He acknowledged that diplomatic efforts have so far failed to halt Iran’s uranium enrichment.
The IAEA held an emergency meeting on Monday, with director Rafael Grossi demanding Iran grant inspectors access to its 400 kilograms of 60%-enriched uranium.
Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge expressed Conservative support for the US operation, emphasizing solidarity with Israel and the US to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran. He noted the UK’s repositioning of military assets in the region as a precautionary measure.
Liberal Democrats leader Sir Ed Davey criticized UK ministers for "dodging questions" on their stance, warning against the UK being drawn into "another illegal American war in the Middle East."
Live Updates: Follow the latest developments on Iran
Related: US urges China to deter Iran from closing Strait of Hormuz; Details emerge on US strikes involving B-2 stealth bombers.
Related: US urges China to deter Iran from closing Strait of Hormuz; Details emerge on US strikes involving B-2 stealth bombers.
