Starmer says ‘no assessment’ UK is being targeted by Iran

LONDON — UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Monday there is “no assessment” that Britain is being targeted by Iran, despite escalating regional tensions and recent military developments.Speaking to broadcasters, Starmer said the government continuously reviews potential threats but stressed that current intelligence does not indicate any direct risk to the UK.His remarks came after the Israeli army claimed Iran possesses missiles capable of reaching cities such as London, Paris and Berlin, following reports of an attempted strike on the US-UK military base at Diego Garcia.Asked whether the UK was within range, Starmer said authorities conduct ongoing assessments “all the time in order to keep us safe,” adding that there is no indication Britain is being targeted.He also underscored the need for de-escalation in the Middle East, saying the UK must protect its interests “without getting dragged into the war.”Starmer confirmed that an emergency Cobra meeting would be held to address the broader impact of the conflict, particularly on household finances and the cost of living.Cobra meetings bring together senior ministers and officials to coordinate responses to major national crises. Starmer said the government would explore all available measures to mitigate economic pressures, with participation from the Bank of England and other institutions.Regional tensions have escalated since US-Israeli strikes on Iran began on Feb. 28, with reported casualties exceeding 1,340 people. Iran has responded with drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Gulf countries, disrupting infrastructure, global markets and aviation.LONDON — UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Monday there is “no assessment” that Britain is being targeted by Iran, despite escalating regional tensions and recent military developments.Speaking to broadcasters, Starmer said the government continuously reviews potential threats but stressed that current intelligence does not indicate any direct risk to the UK.His remarks came after the Israeli army claimed Iran possesses missiles capable of reaching cities such as London, Paris and Berlin, following reports of an attempted strike on the US-UK military base at Diego Garcia.Asked whether the UK was within range, Starmer said authorities conduct ongoing assessments “all the time in order to keep us safe,” adding that there is no indication Britain is being targeted.He also underscored the need for de-escalation in the Middle East, saying the UK must protect its interests “without getting dragged into the war.”Starmer confirmed that an emergency Cobra meeting would be held to address the broader impact of the conflict, particularly on household finances and the cost of living.Cobra meetings bring together senior ministers and officials to coordinate responses to major national crises. Starmer said the government would explore all available measures to mitigate economic pressures, with participation from the Bank of England and other institutions.Regional tensions have escalated since US-Israeli strikes on Iran began on Feb. 28, with reported casualties exceeding 1,340 people. Iran has responded with drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Gulf countries, disrupting infrastructure, global markets and aviation.