UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel accused the British government of freezing ties with Israel and failing to back US strikes on Iran.
As reported by GB News, Priti Patel has criticised ministers for what she called a breakdown in UK-Israeli relations and for refusing to back US military strikes on Iran.
Priti Patel’s views on the UK’s stance on Israel
During an interview on GB News, Priti Patel said,
“We need a British Government which leverages its diplomatic clout in the world when it comes to standing alongside our allies.”
She slammed the Government for spending
“more time talking tough to the Israeli Government rather than supporting a lot of the work that helps to keep our country safe.”
Ms Patel raised concerns over the Government’s lack of comment following US attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.
She said,
“The British Government did not come out to give a view on the US strikes on that Iranian nuclear facility, that is not right at all.”
The shadow foreign secretary highlighted deep intelligence sharing between the UK and Israel as a pillar of bilateral ties.
Ms Patel warned that threats from Iran remain a constant danger. She cited the presence of spies and dissidents operating in Britain against national interests.
Recalling her role as Home Secretary, she said her tenure was driven by a clear objective:
“My sole mission as Home Secretary was to keep our country safe.”
She warned that Middle Eastern conflicts threaten the UK, citing national threat levels and spending on policing and intelligence.
The shadow foreign secretary warned that the UK’s safety depends on dismantling Iran’s military power, particularly its nuclear and missile systems, to prevent domestic threats.
What happened after activists targeted RAF aircraft?
Citing national security concerns, the British government banned Palestine Action. The move came after members damaged military aircraft at RAF Brize Norton last week.
Two activists infiltrated the RAF base, targeting Voyager aircraft engines with red paint and crowbars.
The group stated that the paint
“symbolising Palestinian bloodshed was also sprayed across the runway and a Palestine flag was left on the scene.”
A solidarity protest by Palestine Action turned chaotic in Trafalgar Square, as police clashed with activists and attempted to detain one person amid chants of “let them go.”
Keir Starmer’s stance on Trump’s strikes on Iran
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has endorsed Donald Trump’s overnight airstrikes on Iran.
In a statement, the prime minister stated,
“Iran’s nuclear programme is a grave threat to international security. Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon, and the US has taken action to alleviate that threat.”
He added,
“The situation in the Middle East remains volatile and stability in the region is a priority. We call on Iran to return to the negotiating table and reach a diplomatic solution to end this crisis.”
E3 leaders’ views on Iran’s nuclear threat
European leaders issued a joint statement, saying,
“Our aim continues to be to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. We call upon Iran to engage in negotiations leading to an agreement that addresses all concerns associated with its nuclear program. We stand ready to contribute to that goal in coordination with all parties.”
They added,
“We urge Iran not to take any further action that could destabilise the region. We will continue our joint diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions and ensure the conflict does not intensify and spread further.”