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Question
What discussions did the Foreign Secretary have with the IAEA regarding Iran's nuclear programme before and after the strikes? What diplomatic or military planning has been conducted with regional allies, such as Bahrain and Jordan?
Minister reply
The Government has engaged in extensive diplomatic efforts through conversations with numerous counterparts from various nations to prevent further escalation. Discussions focused on de-escalation strategies and ensuring continued dialogue for peace.
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Question
Will the Foreign Secretary go further to protect UK residents from IRGC-sponsored terrorist actions and proscribe the IRGC? Will the Prime Minister press for a return to negotiations at today's G7 summit?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary will continue to work with allies on addressing state threats, including those from Iran. He confirms that the Prime Minister will push for diplomatic solutions during the G7 meeting.
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Question
What co-ordination has taken place with France and Germany regarding the Iranian situation?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary has been in close touch and worked closely with French and German counterparts to coordinate messages towards Iran and advocate for diplomatic solutions.
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Question
Welcoming the Foreign Secretary's diplomatic actions, Abtisam Mohamed asked if military support would be given without clear consent from this House and how lessons learned from Iraq and Libya will prevent repeating them.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy assured that UK is not involved in Israel’s strikes. He highlighted UK’s role in the region with assets in Cyprus, Bahrain and Qatar, and its involvement in Operation Shader.
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Question
Suggesting repeated containment of Iran's nuclear ambitions through military actions until they cease wishing to acquire nuclear weapons, Sir Julian advised the Foreign Secretary to consider if diplomacy alone can contain these ambitions.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy recognised that JCPOA has been breached and he is clear with Iranian Foreign Minister about expectations for compliance.
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Question
Highlighting civilian casualties and de-escalation of conflict, Alex Sobel asked about the progress on the conference to be co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy confirmed that postponement of the conference was a right decision due to partners wanting to stay in their countries. He highlighted efforts to ensure ceasefire in Israel and Gaza.
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Question
Asked if the US agrees with this position on the situation.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy referred to remarks by Secretary Rubio and statements made by Donald Trump indicating an off-ramp for Iran.
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Question
Asked about steps being taken to ensure safe passage of constituents back home.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy expressed admiration for the Iranian people, advising against travel due to concerns over airspace closure but ensuring embassy staff will support British nationals.
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Question
Asking if we must stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel in proclaiming its right to exist.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy agreed that Israel faces an existential threat and it is important for restraint to prevent regional escalation.
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Question
Asked if this moment aligns with the principle of 'never again'.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy agreed, recognising threats Israel faces and the importance of preventing nuclear proliferation.
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Question
Acknowledging differences with Netanyahu regime but stressing Iran's destabilisation in the region.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy agreed, highlighting Israel as a democracy and the importance of diplomacy to prevent nuclear proliferation.
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Question
Asked if aim should be achieved through diplomacy.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy agreed that all efforts must be placed on Tehran to back down and sign a deal.
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Question
Welcoming statement, asked about confidence in ability to mitigate threats.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy expressed huge confidence in force protection measures and highlighted bilateral defence relationships with several countries.
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Question
Asked for public reassurance on bringing British nationals home to safety.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy assured of embassy staff working around the clock, offering full support notwithstanding airspace closure.
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Question
The MP expressed concern about UK nationals stranded in Israel and asked what contingency plans are being made should the situation deteriorate further, including registering details of UK nationals for repatriation efforts.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy reassured that the Foreign Office is asking all UK nationals to register their presence so they can be updated on exit routes, particularly out of Jordan. Rapid force diplomats have been sent to facilitate this.
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Question
The MP questioned the use of UK military assets in support of Israel’s security, asking if supporting one side undermines calls for de-escalation.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy stated that while UK did not participate or would not participate in Israeli strikes, it plays a proper role in regional security and is mindful of economic interests such as oil prices.
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Question
The MP sought clarification on the UK's involvement in securing the Strait of Hormuz, mentioning previous instances where diplomacy was used to cover up actions.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy focused on the economic implications of a potential blockage of the strait, stressing the importance of regional security and economic stability.
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Question
The MP asked about steps taken by the government to address Israel's nuclear arsenal and its refusal to sign up to international treaties.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy acknowledged the long-standing issue of Israel’s nuclear capabilities but stated that they remain committed to preventing nuclear proliferation in the region.
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Question
The MP questioned whether the impunity enjoyed by Israel for previous acts of aggression influenced Netanyahu's decision to retaliate first.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy highlighted his commitment to de-escalation and restraint while maintaining clear communication with regional partners.
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Question
The MP asked for clarity on what 'keeping an eye' on Gaza entails, especially regarding the humanitarian situation.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy explained that he was actively working to secure aid and hostages’ release through dialogue with regional leaders.
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Question
The MP questioned the timing of recognising Palestine and extending sanctions against Netanyahu’s regime.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy stated that recognition remains a part of the process towards achieving peace but did not commit to an immediate move.
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Question
The MP sought reassurance about the wellbeing of British citizens in the wider region, given escalating tensions.
Minister reply
Mr Lamly assured MPs that contingency plans are in place and diplomatic staff are standing ready to protect British interests.
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Question
The MP asked how the government would balance resolving immediate crises with long-term objectives such as aid delivery, ceasefire agreements, and recognition.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy emphasised the need to balance these issues while pressing for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and ensuring security in other areas.
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Question
The MP sought reassurance about the safety of RAF Akrotiri personnel from potential Iranian threats.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy assured that UK has capabilities to ensure the safety of its people, referencing work with partners in Cyprus, Bahrain, and Qatar.
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Question
The MP questioned if it is in our national interests to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy confirmed that preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons is indeed a top priority for the UK.
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Question
N/A - Opening statement by the Foreign Secretary.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary did not provide an opening statement but addressed questions from MPs about the deployment of RAF jets and UK's stance on the Israel-Iran conflict.
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Question
N/A - Response to concerns raised by MPs.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary assured that the deployment of RAF jets is a precautionary measure and that the UK will play no part in aggression against Iran. He also discussed ongoing efforts with international partners, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to ensure transparency regarding Iran's nuclear activities.
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Question
N/A - Additional responses and reassurances.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary provided assurances about diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation, including discussions with Gulf allies and partners. He also emphasised the UK’s commitment to de-escalation and peace in the region.
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Question
N/A - Rebuttal of criticisms.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary rebutted accusations about UK involvement with Israel by highlighting the robust export licensing regime. He also emphasised the importance of international humanitarian law in all military training courses provided to allies.
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Question
N/A - Addressing concerns about aid and recognition.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary assured that efforts are being made to ensure aid reaches beleaguered areas like Gaza, while also discussing the importance of diplomatic solutions over military action.
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Question
N/A - Reaffirmation of UK's position.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary reiterated that the best use of British military assets is through diplomatic efforts to prevent the escalation of conflict in the region, emphasising the importance of international law and humanitarian considerations.
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Question
N/A - Final reassurance.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary concluded by reiterating that Iran’s intent and deception have been confirmed by the IAEA, underlining the need for continued diplomatic efforts to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran.
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Question
What is the Government’s realistic proposal to return to diplomatic solutions as soon as possible and get Iran to give up its nuclear weapons programme?
Minister reply
I can confirm that along with my colleagues in France and Germany, I expect to be engaged with Iran on this issue in the coming hours.
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Question
Given the danger from Iran, will he agree that Israel was right to strike nuclear sites?
Minister reply
The phrase about no military endeavour being able to achieve this without diplomacy has been used by the US and by the Israelis themselves.
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Question
Does he agree that the first question for any policy choice should be: where does it all end?
Minister reply
I am grateful that the hon. Gentleman brings so much experience, and I agree with his sentiment.
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Question
What reassurance can you give to my constituents that we will repatriate British citizens as quickly as possible?
Minister reply
I urge the hon. Member’s constituent to register his daughter’s presence, recognise our surge of staff in the region, and reach out on the hotline if necessary.
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Question
Does he clarify the nature of Israeli military personnel training on British soil?
Minister reply
This is an academic course, non-combat. We have extremely high standards in this country and share them with others.
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Question
What assessment has the Foreign Secretary made of the increased risk to our military personnel in the region?
Minister reply
We are at the highest level of force protection because of ongoing conflict, emphasising de-escalation and restraint.
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Question
With talk of regime change again in the air, what will you do to personally talk back Israeli authorities?
Minister reply
The hon. Member is right to emphasise caution; this forms the bedrock of diplomacy our officials are exercising.
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Question
Why did the UK act to defend Israel from drone attack last year but not at the weekend?
Minister reply
Each military situation is different; a particular context of ballistic missiles coming in and a request for support was made.
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Question
Does he agree that the Caroline principles allowing Israel to conduct strikes were not engaged?
Minister reply
At this Dispatch Box, I speak as Foreign Secretary, emphasising diplomatic and legal obligations.
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Question
Will you commit again to working with allies like the US to minimise bloodshed and ensure Israel is safe from attacks?
Minister reply
Yes, I will. The hon. Gentleman is right to bring to mind Iran’s human rights record, which includes arrests and executions.