INTERNATIONAL — March 23, 2026

UK Prime Minister Starmer: No Assessment of Iran Directly Targeting Britain

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said there is no current assessment that Britain has been directly targeted by Iran, following reports of missiles fired toward the joint US-UK Diego Garcia base. He highlighted the need for careful planning on the Strait of Hormuz and prioritizing national interests amid rising Gulf tensions.

The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Khaama Press2 min read

UK Prime Minister Starmer: No Assessment of Iran Directly Targeting Britain
Image courtesy Khaama Press

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated there is currently no assessment indicating that Britain has been directly targeted by Iran, with security evaluations ongoing.

His comments followed reports of two Iranian ballistic missiles fired toward the Diego Garcia military base in the Indian Ocean, which is used by the United States and United Kingdom, according to Reuters on March 23.

Starmer emphasized that any attempt to reopen the Strait of Hormuz would require careful planning and a practical operational strategy to ensure safety and effectiveness.

The UK government's top priority, he added, is protecting national interests while working to reduce regional tensions.

The remarks come amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf and surrounding areas following military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran. These developments have raised concerns over shipping security and energy transportation.

Diego Garcia serves as a key strategic hub for US and UK operations in the Indian Ocean, playing a central role in regional military coordination and logistics.

Tensions in the Gulf have intensified due to ongoing conflicts involving Iran, Israel and the US, with potential implications for global energy markets and international trade routes.

The UK continues to monitor regional developments closely, stressing that safeguarding national security and reducing escalation in the Gulf remain the government's foremost priorities.

Read the original reporting at Khaama Press

Reliability assessment

Single source provides direct, on-record attribution to named official UK PM Keir Starmer with concrete details on his statements; missile reports attributed to Reuters

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InternationalKeir Starmer, Iran, UK, Diego Garcia, Strait of Hormuz

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