‘Simply not true’ UK is being dragged into Iraq-style conflict, says foreign secretary

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Peter Walker Senior political correspondentMarch 2, 2026 at 09:29 AM

Read Original Article

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Following Iranian strikes in the Middle East, including one on Cyprus, and a US-Israeli attack that killed an Iranian leader, UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper denied the UK was being drawn into an Iraq-style conflict. The UK is considering plans to evacuate approximately 300,000 British citizens from the region. While the UK was not involved in the initial attack, Keir Starmer agreed to allow the US to use British military bases to strike Iranian missile sites for defensive purposes. Cooper emphasized this agreement is limited to defending Gulf countries and protecting British citizens and interests, focusing on ballistic missiles aimed at partner nations. She stated the UK is prioritizing a diplomatic solution but recognizes its responsibility to provide defensive support to its partners.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Cyprus ×240% Israel ×250% UK ×450% Gulf ×260% Keir Starmer ×360% Tehran ×270% Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ×270% British citizens 80% Middle East ×380% Yvette Cooper ×380% US-Israeli attack ×290% Iranian drone attack ×290%

Keywords

middle east conflict 90% iranian strikes 80% uk military bases 70% british citizens 70% evacuation plans 60% defensive support 50% diplomatic process 50% ballistic missiles 40%