Iran

Raab responded to Ellwood's urgent question, expressing condolences for those who died on PS752 and highlighting Iran's responsibility. He mentioned ongoing diplomatic efforts including the International Coordination and Response Group, meetings with international partners in Brussels, Washington, and Montreal, and discussions with Foreign Minister Zarif and President Rouhani. Raab emphasised that the regime must face accountability but also that a diplomatic door remains open for Iran to de-escalate tensions.

Ellwood inquired about transparency in the crash investigation and security concerns for British diplomats. He warned against Iran's continued destabilising actions and questioned the effectiveness of previous diplomatic efforts, advocating for new talks that address missile sanctions and economic reform to genuinely rehabilitate Iran.

Hamilton expressed concern about the escalating tensions in Iran and Iraq following General Soleimani's assassination. He highlighted recent attacks on US bases, Iran's uranium enrichment policies, protests in Tehran, the arrest of the British ambassador Rob Macaire, and the downing of PS752, killing 176 people including four Britons.

Welcomed condemnation of Iran's conduct, raised issues regarding dual nationals such as Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe with Foreign Minister Zarif. Emphasised the importance of transatlantic unity to defuse tensions without military conflict, stressed need for accountability and consistent pressure while maintaining diplomatic engagement.

Called for Iran not to ease pressure and suggested proscribing the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a foreign terrorist organisation.

Agreed with maintaining consistent pressure but also emphasised that diplomatic engagement remains an option for Iran. Indicated willingness to consider proscription of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Expressed cross-party unity in support of diplomatic efforts and asked about discussions with US authorities regarding visa issues for Iran's Foreign Minister.

Confirmed ongoing dialogue despite differences on maximum pressure, noted importance of a diplomatic path forward. Clarified that the Iranian Foreign Minister’s visa was not refused but that opportunities for dialogue must be maintained.

Asked about discussions on an international investigation into the downing of Ukraine International Airlines flight 752, particularly in relation to proper repatriation and compensation for victims.

Confirmed ongoing work with Canada on this issue, stressing the importance of a credible investigation and full transparency regarding details surrounding the incident.

Asked about support for BBC Persian staff facing harassment from the Iranian regime and requested measures to ensure their safety.

Pledged to protect journalists, including British ones, and highlighted an international campaign promoting media freedom.

Called for close cooperation with other countries affected by the Ukraine International Airlines incident and participation in joint investigation meetings.

Confirmed full engagement in international efforts to ensure a thorough investigation and compensation for victims' families.

Suggested that public demonstrations in Iran could indicate potential shifts in foreign policy, urging engagement with Gulf states and other partners to facilitate such a shift.

Agreed on the importance of observing public mood changes but also stressed the need for solidarity with China, Russia, among others, in conveying messages to Iran.

Proposed proscribing the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps and freezing its assets as a strong signal against malign activities worldwide.

Acknowledged the Quds force’s role in supporting terrorist groups but noted ongoing sanctions review regarding proscription of IRGC.

Inquired about FCO assessment of increased risk from IS/Daesh both regionally and domestically, seeking details on actions taken to counter these dangers.

The risk of war would benefit terrorist groups like Daesh. We are working to prevent the reversal of gains made against these groups and maintaining diplomatic lines with Iran.

Concerned about de-escalation efforts not showing progress, particularly regarding Israeli safety.

Emphasised the need for continued dialogue with Iran and suggested an interfaith delegation to promote peace.

Asked about practical steps to encourage Iran's return to full compliance with the JCPOA.

Called for measures to prevent civilian aircraft from being mistaken for military threats and shot down in conflict zones.

Proposed reaching out through regional allies like Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar to encourage Iran to change its policies.

Asked about assurances sought regarding the rights of peaceful protesters in Iran during diplomatic talks with Iranian counterparts.

Questioned whether it is time to recognise that the regime does not intend peace and if support for the people of Iran should be prioritised.

Suggested a policy of long-term containment similar to that used against the Soviet Union and asked about coordination with American allies.

Iran is compared to the Soviet Union due to its actions and influence. He asks what specific measures are being taken by the UK and allies to support democracy protesters in Iran.

The UK supports peaceful protest and freedom of expression in international forums like the UN but seeks a balance between upholding norms, values, and human rights without aiding hardliners. The government aims for transparency from Iran regarding the downing of the airliner as a step towards reversing political and economic isolation.

Compliments Raab's statement about Sultan Qaboos. Notes the corrupting influence of IRG within Iran and supports de-escalation while advocating for a values competition in which most Iranians would side with Western countries.

Suggests freezing assets of children and families of Iranian ayatollahs and Government Ministers who invest billions into the West as a way to take action against them.

Appreciates Raab's calls for de-escalation, support of victim families from the downed aircraft, and work with France and Germany to reboot the JCPOA. Asks how the relationship with E3 will continue post-Brexit.

Requests assurance that assistance is being given to families of victims from the Ukrainian International Airlines flight and asks for confirmation that all possible help is being provided.

Suggests the Foreign Office work on updating the Geneva conventions or rules around civilian airliners to better ensure their safety from improper use of Russian weaponry.

Notes demonstrations in Tehran and elsewhere that show many Iranians want freedom. Requests consideration for these people when responding to events with international colleagues.

Highlights the safety of British armed forces, noting a senior Quds force commander described UK personnel as potential 'collateral damage' in US military attacks.

Asks for assessment on conflicting accounts from Tehran regarding recent incidents, noting a pattern of misinformation campaigns from Iran.