On Monday (August 12th), British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to urge him not to attack Israel, stating that war is not in anyone’s interest. Starmer’s rare phone call is part of international efforts to ease the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Starmer took to the social media platform X on Monday to express his concerns about the situation in the Middle East. He wrote, “The situation in the Middle East is deeply worrisome. This evening, I spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian about the need for all parties to de-escalate tensions to avoid further confrontation. Now is a time for calm.”
Recently, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated after attending the inauguration ceremony of the new Iranian President Pezeshkian in Iran, and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr was killed in Beirut, sparking threats of Iranian retaliation against Israel.
A statement from 10 Downing Street quoted Starmer as saying, “There is a serious risk of miscalculation, and now is a time for calm and careful consideration.”
Starmer reiterated his commitment to an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza. He added that the focus should be on diplomatic negotiations to achieve these goals.
The statement revealed that both leaders agreed that constructive dialogue between the UK and Iran is in the interest of both countries.
Starmer further stated that dialogue between the two countries can only progress if Iran ceases its “destabilizing behavior,” including threats to British citizens and no longer aiding Russia in its invasion of Ukraine.
According to a report by Skynews on Monday, the conversation between the British Prime Minister and the Iranian leader was described as “highly unusual.” Starmer’s call with Pezeshkian lasted for 30 minutes. The call took place after the British Prime Minister had earlier spoken with US President Biden and other European allies.
The White House issued a joint statement on Monday, with leaders from the US, France, Germany, Italy, and the UK expressing support for Israel’s defense against Iranian aggression and attacks by Iran-backed terrorist groups, calling on Iran to cease its military threats against Israel.