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Middle East 2025-06-23
23 June 2025
Lead MP
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
NHSDefenceEmploymentForeign Affairs
Other Contributors: 60
At a Glance
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs raised concerns about middle east 2025-06-23 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Government Statement
NHSDefenceEmploymentForeign Affairs
Government Statement
Since the last update to the House, the United States has struck three Iranian nuclear sites at Isfahan, Natanz and Fordow. Britain was not involved in these strikes but remains concerned about Iran's nuclear programme. The enriched uranium stockpile is now 40 times over the limit set by the joint comprehensive plan of action. Iran lacks any civilian justification for this level of nuclear activity and is enriching at 60%, far beyond typical commercial levels. The International Atomic Energy Agency has declared Iran to be in breach of its non-proliferation obligations.
The Government's priority remains the welfare of British nationals in Iran and Israel, and they have launched a booking portal for evacuations, with Royal Air Force flights being deployed. In Iran, airspace is closed and internet access severely restricted; staff from the embassy in Tehran were temporarily withdrawn due to security concerns. The Foreign Office has advised against travel to Iran since 2019.
In response to the current situation, the Government is working closely with international partners to end this crisis through diplomatic means. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has spoken to President Trump and I have engaged in several hours of talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi. We are focused on reaching a new agreement with Iran to ensure a lasting end to its nuclear programme and de-escalation of tensions.
The situation presents serious risks to British interests, including force protection levels at their highest and the possibility of economic self-harm if Iran were to blockade the Strait of Hormuz. The UK is also maintaining focus on other regional conflicts, such as the plight in Gaza.
Priti Patel
Con
Witham
Question
How many British nationals need to be repatriated? What resources are being deployed to support these efforts?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary could not provide specific numbers but has confirmed that a Royal Air Force flight has been dispatched to evacuate 63 British nationals and their dependants. Further flights will follow, prioritising those with the greatest need.
Priti Patel
Con
Witham
Question
What is the Government's position on future strikes against Iran’s nuclear capacities? Are there any plans to support them?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary could not specify whether more strikes are planned, citing ongoing information gathering. He did note that supporting further strikes depends on assessments and advice from legal authorities.
Question
The Foreign Secretary is thanked for his statement and invited to respond to questions from MPs on various aspects of the legal, diplomatic, and humanitarian responses to Iran’s actions.
Minister reply
Minister responds comprehensively to each question, addressing issues such as airspace closure impacts on British nationals in Israel, the lack of direct UK involvement in military strikes, the importance of continued diplomatic efforts despite challenges, and the need for robust measures against state threats from Iran.
Calum Miller
LD
Bicester and Woodstock
Question
Miller supports condemnation of Iranian regime but questions whether unilateral actions by Israel and US can provide long-term security. He calls for robust diplomacy grounded in international law.
Minister reply
Lammy agrees on the need for diplomacy, emphasising that Vice-President Vance aims to delay Iran’s nuclear weapon development through ongoing strikes against their programme.
Dan Carden
Lab
Liverpool Walton
Question
Carden welcomes calls for a negotiated solution but warns of potential prolonged instability if interventions aim at regime change.
Minister reply
Lammy acknowledges the history of regime change debates and reminds that US intentions are focused on targeting Iran's nuclear threat.
Question
Will the Foreign Secretary now concede that the international community’s unwillingness to take robust action through things like the snapback mechanism and the JCPOA is part of the reason that Israel felt the need to take the initial strikes and America to do likewise? I agree that diplomatic means will ultimately be the only long-term resolution, but that means not just asking nicely for Iran to put its nuclear weapons away, but enforcing that and ensuring it does so through such mechanisms. Will the Foreign Secretary ensure that if we are not going to be involved in military action—I understand why we might not want to do that—we will ensure that robust action is taken, and that it is underpinned by measures that will force Iran to do the right thing, rather than just hoping that it will do the right thing?
Minister reply
The UK is engaged in diplomacy with Iran and has conducted seven rounds of negotiations; however, Iran continues to obfuscate and deceive. The Foreign Secretary emphasises the importance of robust enforcement mechanisms such as the JCPOA but also stresses the need for legal and ethical considerations in military action.
Uma Kumaran
Lab
Stratford and Bow
Question
Will the Foreign Secretary assure the House that while we all want to see urgent de-escalation, the escalating conflict in Iran will not take focus from the UK’s efforts to end the devastating war in Gaza, help the Palestinian people, free hostages and lift restrictions on humanitarian and medical aid?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary reiterates his deep concerns over the new system Israel has implemented for delivering aid and emphasises the need to return to a better provision of assistance to Palestine.
Aphra Brandreth
Con
Chester South and Eddisbury
Question
The Foreign Secretary has said that Iran must not be allowed to have a nuclear weapon. Does he therefore support the recent targeted strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian nuclear facilities: yes or no? If not, can he explain how exactly that inaction would have curtailed Iran’s nuclear ambitions?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary states that it is too early to assess the effectiveness of those actions but affirms that UK's approach remains focused on diplomacy.
Blair McDougall
Lab
East Renfrewshire
Question
I associate myself with the Foreign Secretary’s condemnation of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, but we need to match that condemnation with accountability. Here in the UK, Jewish communities are deeply concerned about what lies ahead. Last week, the Iranian ambassador claimed his country’s nuclear programme is legal and purely civil. What does the Foreign Secretary make of this?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary confirms the inflexibility of Iran on its willingness to negotiate or dismantle its nuclear programme but highlights the seriousness with which the international community views the issue.
West Dorset
Question
The Foreign Secretary has confirmed that Britain was not involved in the strikes on Iran. Will he also confirm whether the US Administration sought permission to use Diego Garcia as the launch point for the strikes? If permission was sought and denied, on what basis did the Prime Minister deny permission?
Minister reply
They did not seek that advice.
Alex Ballinger
Lab
Halesowen
Question
I thank the Foreign Secretary for his measured approach to this crisis. In past rounds of violence, Iran has often leaned on its proxies to conduct retaliation. What steps is the Foreign Secretary taking to protect UK shipping in that area and to keep safe the trade routes that are so vital for our country?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary affirms that Iran's proxies have been considerably degraded but acknowledges ongoing activities by the Houthis, stressing the UK’s commitment to protecting its shipping routes.
Maldon
Question
The Foreign Affairs Committee met the Iranian ambassador twice last week. Can the Foreign Secretary say, on the basis of numerous meetings with the Iranian Foreign Minister that he has reported, whether he gained any impression of Iran’s willingness either to dismantle its nuclear programme or to negotiate?
Minister reply
Iran's inflexibility and failure to face international seriousness about zero enrichment are highlighted.
Florence Eshalomi
Lab/Co-op
Vauxhall and Camberwell Green
Question
I thank the Foreign Secretary for his statement. He said that the whole House will have in their thoughts the many civilians impacted by this fighting. Can the Foreign Secretary assure me that the UK will not act immediately to follow any military action and that we will urge the US and Israel to de-escalate and avoid targeting innocent civilians?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary reaffirms his commitment to diplomacy and de-escalation, emphasising the importance of avoiding military action unless it is necessary.
Stephen Flynn
SNP
Aberdeen South
Question
Despite that, the Foreign Secretary cannot tell us whether or not he believes that the strikes were the right thing to do, or whether or not he believes that the strikes were legal. Is he purposely treating the public as fools?
Minister reply
The UK is pursuing diplomacy and de-escalation. The hon. Gentleman's record on nuclear matters is criticised.
Calvin Bailey
Lab
Leyton and Wanstead
Question
Let us be clear about the regime: it has killed thousands upon thousands; upheld the brutal suppression of democracy, as well as the rights of women and LGBT+ people; and demonstrated a consistent intent to sponsor terrorism and act through proxies with violence. Does my right hon. Friend agree that we must do what we can to support de-escalation as soon as possible?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary agrees on supporting de-escalation, highlighting the UK's commitment to legal and ethical considerations in military action.
Bob Blackman
Con
Harrow East
Question
Will the Foreign Secretary use his powers to persuade the Home Secretary to proscribe the IRGC in its entirety after it has conducted or attempted attacks on this country multiple times?
Minister reply
The proscription question is for the Home Secretary. She keeps proscription under review and has made a decision today based on agencies’ assessments.
Jessica Morden
Lab
Newport East
Question
Will the Foreign Secretary underline that aid will continue to get through Gaza and an immediate ceasefire is being pressed for?
Minister reply
I sit with Eli Sharabi, who managed to escape from a Hamas cell but suffered starvation. The humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza affects everyone there.
Richard Tice
Reform
Boston and Skegness
Question
Will the Foreign Secretary join Reform and me in thanking the United States and Israel for degrading the Iranian nuclear weapons programme?
Minister reply
I had conversations with US officials, including Vice President Vance. The US position is that they are at war with Iran’s nuclear programme.
Richard Burgon
Lab
Leeds East
Question
Confirm that any war on Iran for regime change would be illegal under international law and oppose UK involvement?
Minister reply
I am confident through engagement with the US that this is not about regime change. The Israelis have been clear they are not attacking civilian leadership in Iran.
Bernard Jenkin
Con
Harwich and North Essex
Question
Why did Lord Hermer’s opinion on the legality of UK involvement in military action become public last week? Is this a sign of paralysis or division within the Government?
Minister reply
No.
Aylesbury
Question
Does the Foreign Secretary agree that Europe as a collective force for diplomacy and peace will be crucial now?
Minister reply
The E3, alongside France and Germany, have been working with Iran to urge them back to diplomacy.
Epsom and Ewell
Question
What steps are being taken to ensure that British nationals like my constituent who was caught in Iran can be repatriated swiftly and safely?
Minister reply
We advise against travel to Iran since 2019. We offer support on the border with Azerbaijan but airspace is not open.
Debbie Abrahams
Lab
Oldham East and Saddleworth
Question
What is my right hon Friend doing to ensure that we can get back on track with our international rules-based system?
Minister reply
I met the Iranian Foreign Minister in Geneva under the United Nations umbrella, reinforcing messages shared with the US.
Adrian Ramsay
Green
Waveney Valley
Question
Will he clearly state that de-escalation must mean no UK involvement if the US falls deeper into a conflict with Iran?
Minister reply
We have UK nationals and bases in the region, and force protection is at its highest level.
Stella Creasy
Lab/Co-op
Walthamstow
Question
What conversations has my right hon Friend had with the Israeli Government about targeting non-military installations?
Minister reply
I spoke to the Israeli Foreign Minister, who reassured me that their military targets remain focused on nuclear facilities.
Kit Malthouse
Con
North West Hampshire
Question
Does he envisage any UK part in consequences for outright murders in Gaza?
Minister reply
In the White House last week, we discussed the situation in Gaza and chances of a ceasefire with Hamas.
Louise Jones
Lab
North East Derbyshire
Question
Can he assure me that everything is being done to make sure there is adequate force protection for UK personnel deployed?
Minister reply
Everything possible is being done to ensure the safety of our personnel in the region.
Ben Lake
PC
Ceredigion Preseli
Question
What steps is he taking to align and coordinate his diplomatic efforts with those of our European and G7 allies?
Minister reply
I have spoken to our G7 allies over the past two weeks, as well as partners in the Levant and Gulf regions. NATO will be another forum for discussing a common path towards diplomacy.
Barry Gardiner
Lab
Brent West
Question
What action will he take against Prime Minister Netanyahu to stop the destabilisation of the Middle East?
Minister reply
We do have disagreements with the Government of Israel, and we sanctioned two members of that government a few weeks ago. However, we remain a friend of Israel and work at many levels.
David Reed
Con
Exmouth and Exeter East
Question
What contingency options has the Foreign Secretary worked up to protect UK national interests if Iran closes the straits of Hormuz?
Minister reply
All contingencies are in place, and we are discussing these issues with our allies. However, it would be inappropriate for me to go into operational detail.
Clive Lewis
Lab
Norwich South
Question
Does he believe that recent strikes by the US and Israel have made Britain or the world safer?
Minister reply
An assessment of the effectiveness of military action has not yet been made, but diplomacy remains our preferred approach to resolving this crisis.
Brendan O’Hara
SNP
Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber
Question
Does he believe that America’s attack on Iran aligns with international law?
Minister reply
I refer to my earlier statements about the rules-based order and adherence to international law as enshrined in the UN Charter.
Torcuil Crichton
Lab
Na h-Eileanan an Iar
Question
Will he outline what more detail will be provided for UK citizens in the wider region?
Minister reply
We keep our advice updated and are on high alert right across the region, ensuring that we provide timely updates to advise our citizens.
Mike Martin
LD
Tunbridge Wells
Question
Is it UK Government policy to pursue regime change in Iran?
Minister reply
It is not for us to change the regime of any country; that must be for the people themselves.
Ian Byrne
Lab
Liverpool West Derby
Question
Does he support the international rules-based order despite actions by our allies contrary to it?
Minister reply
We continue to uphold the rules-based order and believe in the international architecture established after the second world war.
Harriett Baldwin
Con
West Worcestershire
Question
Is the diplomatic off-ramp for Iran that it changes its stance on recognising Israel’s right to exist?
Minister reply
Yes, of course the regime should recognise Israel's right to exist and work with the US and E3 to put any developed materials beyond use.
Ayoub Khan
Ind
Birmingham Perry Barr
Question
Is it because he realises that the attack on Iran was illegal?
Minister reply
I will continue to work with our closest ally to ensure that Iran never gets a nuclear weapon.
Greg Smith
Con
Mid Buckinghamshire
Question
The hon. Gentleman questioned whether continued reliance on diplomacy with Iran is effective given its ongoing support for terrorism and enrichment of uranium.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy emphasised that once a country has the capability to enrich uranium, diplomatic solutions are necessary to control this expertise. He urged Iran to return to negotiations.
David Taylor
Lab
Hemel Hempstead
Question
The hon. Gentleman asked for assurance on engagement with human rights activists and democracy advocates in the UK regarding the situation in Iran.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy committed to engaging with Syrian activists and said he would undertake similar efforts with Iranian human rights activists.
South Devon
Question
The hon. Lady raised the issue of moral equivalence between Russia's invasion of Ukraine and potential US actions against Iran.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy stated that one should be wary of moral equivalence, given Russia’s invasion and its support for Iran in aiding Putin's aggression.
Melanie Ward
Lab
Cowdenbeath and Kirkcaldy
Question
The hon. Lady thanked the Foreign Secretary for his diplomatic efforts and asked about further discussions on Gaza, Ukraine, and protecting UK citizens abroad.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy confirmed ongoing liaison with Jordan and Gulf partners to keep British citizens safe.
Ben Spencer
Con
Runnymede and Weybridge
Question
The hon. Member inquired about the measures needed for Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy highlighted that Iran must recognise its weakened position and come back to negotiations, with international support for dealing with stockpiles and enrichment.
Jacob Collier
Lab
Burton and Uttoxeter
Question
The hon. Member asked how the UK would protect against potential oil price rises due to escalation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy emphasised working towards de-escalation and reassured that the Government is doing everything possible to avoid an oil price shock.
Robin Swann
UUP
South Antrim
Question
The hon. Member asked about Iran’s potential withdrawal from the nuclear non-proliferation treaty and what steps were being taken to prevent this.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy expressed grave concerns and highlighted reports of Iran's Parliament preparing to withdraw from the NPT.
Kim Johnson
Lab
Liverpool Riverside
Question
The hon. Member inquired about steps taken to de-escalate tensions and protect UK interests, including a definitive answer on UK involvement.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy confirmed that the UK was not involved and highlighted ongoing diplomatic efforts with international partners.
Ben Obese-Jecty
Con
Huntingdon
Question
The hon. Member asked about potential military support for the US under Article 5 of NATO if Iran launches a retaliatory strike.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy referred the hon. Gentleman to paragraph 2.13 of the ministerial code.
Brian Leishman
Lab
Alloa and Grangemouth
Question
The hon. Member suggested that the UK should follow an independent foreign policy, not dictated by US interests.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy highlighted his Prime Minister's understanding of international obligations and commitment to the rules-based order.
Tewkesbury
Question
The hon. Member raised concerns about inadequate force protection at home following recent incidents, questioning whether the UK should follow Trump’s war with Iran.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy referred the hon. Gentleman to a statement by the Armed Forces Minister on base security.
Alex Sobel
Lab/Co-op
Leeds Central and Headingley
Question
The hon. Member asked about justifications for military action beyond Iran, referencing North Korea as an example.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy highlighted the importance of preventing Iran from becoming another North Korea and emphasised working to prevent a nuclear programme.
David Simmonds
Con
Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner
Question
The hon. Member asked about supporting his constituents affected by Iranian attacks in Israel.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy highlighted the UK's work to protect British citizens abroad and support those sheltering from attacks.
Hendon
Question
The hon. Member asked for more details on timeframes for repatriation flights and efforts to assist those leaving Israel over land borders or by sea.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy updated the House about rapid response teams working at land borders and confirmed ongoing flights with future plans dependent on airspace availability.
Lammy
N/A
Question
Does His Majesty’s Government support or oppose the US military action against Iran at the weekend?
Minister reply
His Majesty’s Government will continue to work with our closest ally, as I did last week in Washington DC.
Scott Arthur
Lab
Edinburgh South West
Question
I thank the Foreign Secretary for the energy he has invested in de-escalation, because it is the only moral route out of this conflict. Is he keeping a watchful eye on that, and has he discussed it with our international partners?
Minister reply
I spoke to our ambassadors and teams across the region this morning, because I recognise that this is a worrying and stressful time in all those areas. That is why my central message and task is to de-escalate. We need more light and less heat.
Pete Wishart
SNP
Perth and Kinross-shire
Question
If I heard the Foreign Secretary correctly, he said that the UK would act if Iran sought to block the strait of Hormuz. Did he mean “act militarily”? In what other conditions would he consider military action, and what would he say if the Americans turned to this Government and asked them for support in any military adventure to do with this conflict?
Minister reply
It would be quite wrong for me to go into eventualities and operational matters at this Dispatch Box at this time, but the hon. Gentleman should be reassured that all contingency arrangements are in place to keep our people safe and to work with our allies to keep the region safe.
Shockat Adam
Ind
Leicester South
Question
The most in-depth study ever conducted of the casualties of the so-called war on terror was carried out by Brown University in America, which found that, directly or indirectly, more than 4.5 million people lost their lives partly because of what was voted for in this House. Does the Foreign Secretary agree that the only way in which this conflict can be resolved is through diplomacy, and can he assure the House that he will not follow the last Labour Government and the mantra of the former Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair when it comes to America’s bombing a middle eastern country—“with you, whatever” —and lead this country and the world into the abyss?
Minister reply
I can state again, as I have stated throughout the afternoon, that diplomacy is the way, and I remind the hon. Gentleman that our Government, and successive Governments, have learned from the Chilcot inquiry.
Jim Allister
TUV
North Antrim
Question
Why should the House of Commons, and those in the country that we represent, not be entitled to know whether their Government support or regret the American action? Does not equivocation on that issue bring succour to those who we say must be robbed, quite properly, of their nuclear potential?
Minister reply
I think that the people of Britain are entitled to know that we were not involved in this action, and that we work for diplomacy and de-escalation. That is why I was sitting in the White House last week, it is why I was in Geneva on Friday, and it is why I was at a Cobra meeting and making a round of calls to allies and partners to de-escalate at this time yesterday.
Sarah Pochin
Reform
Runcorn and Helsby
Question
Can the Foreign Secretary explain to the House whether the United States felt unable to use the Diego Garcia base and had to refuel three times, in a highly dangerous operation, because of the deal that the Government did with the Mauritians, who would then tell the Chinese, who would then tell the Iranians?
Minister reply
The hon. Lady has to get off social media, and she has to get some help. She is swallowing conspiracy theories that should not be repeated in this House.
Ellie Chowns
Green
North Herefordshire
Question
The Iranian regime has long been a threat to peace, democracy and human rights, and the unilateral, illegal and dangerously provocative Israeli and, now, American attacks have made a tense situation extremely perilous and are completely outside international law. It is therefore deeply concerning to hear the Foreign Secretary echo the talking points of Netanyahu and Trump instead of standing up for those principles, clearly condemning the illegality of these bombings, and unequivocally ruling out the UK’s being dragged into any military action to support such illegal action. Why will he not do so?
Minister reply
I am focused on Iran’s desire for a nuclear weapon, I am focused on the UK’s solemn obligation to stop that happening, and I am focused on the diplomacy that is required to bring that about.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Question
I thank the Foreign Secretary for his statement. I have often spoken in this Chamber about the Iranian regime and the horrific human rights abuses that take place under the IRGC. I have nothing but admiration for the steps taken to destroy Iranian nuclear armaments by our American and Israeli allies—steps that we must support. Will the Foreign Secretary confirm that the UK stands shoulder to shoulder with the US and Israel as they do what needs to be done? We must send a message to Iran that retaliation in any form will not be acceptable, and that it would face the might of the best armed forces in the world—the British armed forces.
Minister reply
I can reassure the hon. Gentleman that of course we stand with our allies in the United States and Israel in facing down the repeated threats from Iran. The threat to Israel is existential, and the Iranians are destabilising the neighbourhood. Of course we will stand up to them.
Shadow Comment
Priti Patel
Shadow Comment
The shadow Secretary acknowledges that Iran’s regime must never be allowed nuclear weapons and praises the Government for their work to protect British nationals. However, she questions why Britain was not involved in US strikes against Iranian sites despite being aware of the legal advice from the Attorney General cautioning against UK involvement. She also raises concerns over the number of stranded British nationals needing repatriation and criticises the delay compared to other countries’ operational planning.
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