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Iran
15 July 2026
Lead MP
Calvin Bailey
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Defence
Other Contributors: 43
At a Glance
Calvin Bailey raised concerns about iran in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The speaker highlighted the critical situation in Iran, noting Britain’s armed forces' commendable work. He mentioned recent US strikes against Iranian targets, stressing the need for a diplomatic solution to reduce regional tensions. The UK has increased military presence and reinforced partners’ air defence capabilities while also addressing domestic threats from Iran-backed terrorism. The minister emphasised the importance of international cooperation in resolving the conflict, including negotiating with Iran under IAEA supervision.
Asked why the Prime Minister was not leading the debate given its national importance.
Recognised cyber-attacks as a consistent threat from Iran and urged to prevent them in any future negotiations.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Elmet and Rothwell
Asked about the role of HMS Dragon in Gulf air defence operations, whether it is part of an integrated system or independent.
Highlighted persecution of religious minorities in Iran and called for freedom of religion for all Iranians.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Welcomed the Government’s proscription of IRGC and asked if they would seize all assets of IRGC in UK, including buildings and banks.
Mark Francois
Con
Rayleigh and Wickford
Expressed agreement with the Minister's tribute to armed forces personnel and noted absence of Reform MPs during debate on defence and security issues.
Commented on Iranian cyber-attacks affecting Scottish independence media and asked for insight into measures against foreign state interference in UK political division.
Expressed condolences over the death of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and thanked service personnel for their work in protecting UK interests.
Wendy Morton
Con
Aldridge-Brownhills
Welcomed the debate, highlighted Iran’s violations of ceasefire, illegal attacks on commercial shipping in Hormuz strait, and its support for terrorist organisations. Emphasised need to address causes of conflict beyond seeking pause, stressed Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons and sponsorship of terrorism.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Elmet and Rothwell
Agreed with the lead MP on the importance of using the right language in debates. Condemned Members who praise actions of the Iranian regime as justified, suggesting they should be condemned.
Asked about whether negotiations were closer today than 10 years ago and questioned what kind of military support was being referred to in the context of UK's military support during conflict.
Jeevun Sandher
Lab
Harrow East
Emphasised the intertwined nature of affordability and security crises due to Iran war. Advocated for investment in clean energy, direct reductions in energy bills, creation of good jobs especially in post-industrial areas.
Asked the hon. Member to condemn Iran for its actions against its own people and across the region.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Elmet and Rothwell
Inquired about making the public aware of cyber threats and their direct consequences on everyday life, suggesting ways to raise awareness.
Questioned how Labour planned to close a £5 billion shortfall in defence investment, given the current cost-of-living crisis.
James MacCleary
Lib Dem
Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk
Mr MacCleary argued that the situation in Iran is volatile due to renewed military strikes, threats against ships in international waters, and escalating rhetoric. He emphasised the need for diplomacy and restraint backed by a commitment to avoid further escalation. The Liberal Democrats oppose any military action as it contravenes international law and has historically led to prolonged conflicts. Mr MacCleary called on the UK Government to work diplomatically with allies to bring Washington and Tehran back to negotiations, stressing that Iran must not develop nuclear weapons but through diplomatic means rather than force. He highlighted the economic impact of instability in the strait of Hormuz, which affects British households. Additionally, he proposed concrete steps such as cutting fuel duty and scrapping VAT on electric vehicle charging to alleviate financial pressure. Mr MacCleary also addressed the case of British citizens detained in Iran and urged the Government to treat their release as an urgent diplomatic priority.
Brian Leishman
SNP
Dundee West
Iranian people face immense suffering while the US fails to achieve its objectives. The cycle of military action continues, harming civilians. Trump's actions in Iran and other regions demonstrate imperialist ambitions contrary to international law. Ceasefire and resumed negotiations are necessary, along with denouncing Trump's tactics and recognising Iranian people’s desire for peace.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Elmet and Rothwell
Intervened to question the implication that European defence spending growth is solely due to US President Trump, noting previous demands from other US Presidents. He highlighted a significant increase in European defence spending since Trump’s presidency began.
Responded to the intervention by acknowledging the historical context of US calls for increased European defence spending but noted that current actions by President Trump are compelling Europe and Britain to take more responsibility. Emphasised the importance of investment in defence while also addressing harmful American behaviour towards alliances.
Luke Evans
Con
Hinckley and Bosworth
Evans cited statements from the Leader of the House, emphasising the urgency of the situation in the Middle East. He noted that key government figures were absent and questioned why the debate had to occur with such urgency.
Harlow
Vince welcomed the Minister for Veterans and People, acknowledging their experience and background. He discussed the financial implications of the situation, highlighting a need to address £15 billion in cuts and unapproved Treasury spending. Vince also emphasised the importance of condemning the Iranian regime’s actions against its own people.
Judith Cummins
Lab
Bradford South
Cummins intervened to correct the language used by other speakers, reminding them that referring to 'you' in the Chamber means addressing the Speaker directly and not attributing views to others without evidence.
Brendan O'Hara
SNP
Argyll and Bute
Discusses the brutal regime in Tehran that has repressed dissent and supported armed groups. Mentions the Woman, Life, Freedom movement and the protests in late 2022 against police brutality. Criticises US President Trump for illegal war intervention to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon, resulting in civilian casualties and economic hardship.
Gregory Stafford
Conservative Party
Unknown
Asks what the correct response is to a regime that violates human rights and disregards societal norms.
Brian Leishman
Labour Party
Unknown
Agrees with Brendan O'Hara's speech, stating that actions of Trump and Netanyahu are not about liberating Iranian people but rather an imposition of imperialist forces leading to capitalism and suffering for ordinary Iranians.
Judith Cummins
Labour Party
Bradford South
Announces the results of deferred Divisions on draft orders related to trade unions and employment rights.
Gordon McKee
not specified party
not specified constituency
Commented on Iran's advanced drone technology and its use in Ukraine, highlighting the importance of watching adversaries' technological advancements.
Mark Francois
Con
Rayleigh and Wickford
Responded to Alec Shelbrooke by mentioning delays in Ajax entering operational service despite a nine-year delay, underscoring concerns over military programme timelines.
Luke Myer
not specified party
not specified constituency
Asked about the lack of a single lead within government to tackle disinformation online from hostile states like Iran and Russia, expressing concern for national security.
Harlow
Highlighted the problem of drip-feeding disinformation that gradually influences public opinion rather than immediate propaganda, stressing its challenge to democratic societies.
Nusrat Ghani
Con
Wealden
Briefly mentioned her support for a speaker but did not provide substantive contribution to the debate topic.
Clive Jones
Lab
not specified constituency
Critiqued Trump and Netanyahu’s illegal war on Iran, expressing concern over UK nationals’ safety and advocating for deepened cooperation with European allies to address instability in the strait of Hormuz.
Gregory Stafford
Con
Bury North
The hon. Member raised concerns about the malign influence of the IRGC and argued that it should be proscribed under the Terrorism Act due to its role in external military operations, support for proxy groups, and efforts to undermine British security. He welcomed recent steps taken by the Government but stressed the importance of transparency and robust enforcement.
Tom Hayes
Con
Delyn
The hon. Member expressed support for the Government's ban on supporters of the IRGC and sanctioned entities, and encouraged his colleague to use the debate to criticise the IRGC further and support the Government’s measures.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Elmet and Rothwell
The hon. Member criticised the timing of the debate, arguing that it was scheduled to avoid scrutiny of the new Labour Prime Minister and would delay important questions about Iran for at least a month and a half.
Mark Francois
Con
Rayleigh and Wickford
The hon. Member emphasises the threat from Iran, including its sponsorship of terrorism, deployment of drones and missiles, and potential to destabilise regions through proxy conflicts. He highlights the importance of recognising the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a foreign state threat and supporting efforts to strengthen maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. Francois also criticises the current Government's defence investment plan for not providing sufficient funds.
Offered condolences to the family of Ann Widdecombe and thanked Godfrey, Margaret in the Tea Room, and Richard from the Strangers Bar.
Nusrat Ghani
Con
Wealden
Expressed gratitude towards Godfrey and Margaret in the Tea Room. Interjected with questions about the effectiveness of proscribing the IRGC and raised concerns over antisemitic claims online.
Angela Eagle
Lab
Wallasey
Responded to Nusrat Ghani's comment, stating it was controversial.
Asked about the likelihood of seeing a Prime Minister from Cambridge at debates.
Welcomed news that IRGC would be proscribed and warned against antisemitic claims online, emphasising the need for debate on barbaric regime actions.
Alex Sobel
Lab
Leeds North West
Called for protection of individuals threatened by IRGC's transnational repression activities in the UK.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Elmet and Rothwell
Emphasised the importance of holding elected councillors accountable if they support or make antisemitic comments, referencing a fire-bombing incident at the Prime Minister's home.
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