UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak addressed the British Parliament on Monday, condemning Iran’s recent actions in the Middle East and emphasizing the importance of restraint in the face of escalating tensions. Sunak accused Iran of “sowing chaos” in the region following a barrage of missiles and drones targeted at Israel over the weekend.

Sunak commended the bravery of the Royal Air Force pilots who, alongside US-led forces, intercepted Iranian drones during the attack. He confirmed the UK’s role in providing crucial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support during the operation, underscoring the nation’s commitment to allied efforts in the region.

In his address, Sunak reiterated his condemnation of Iran’s “reckless and dangerous escalation” and called for all sides to exercise restraint. He emphasized the urgency of de-escalating the situation to prevent further bloodshed, highlighting the need for diplomatic dialogue and cooperation among allies.

With regards to Israel, Sunak expressed solidarity with the nation and pledged to discuss measures to prevent further escalation with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. He stressed the importance of upholding regional security and pursuing a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, while also emphasizing the need to increase aid to the people of Gaza.

Despite the recent tensions, Sunak reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to its position on Gaza, emphasizing the importance of stability and security in the region for the nation’s own security and prosperity.

The statement to Parliament came following the summoning of the Chargé d’Affaires of the Iranian Embassy in London by UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron. The Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office condemned Iran’s attack against Israel, describing it as a “profoundly dangerous and unnecessary escalation.”

Cameron, speaking to the BBC, characterized the attack as a “double defeat” for Iran and emphasized the potential catastrophic consequences had it been successful. He urged Israel to exercise both smart and tough strategies in its response, cautioning against retaliatory strikes and echoing US President Joe Biden’s call for restraint.

The UK government’s stance underscores the gravity of the situation in the Middle East and the imperative for diplomatic efforts to mitigate further escalation. As tensions remain high, the international community, including the UK, continues to monitor the situation closely and work towards a peaceful resolution.