Starmer, Macron and Merz warn Iran 'not to take any further action' following US strikes
22 June 2025, 19:30 | Updated: 22 June 2025, 22:45
Sir Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron and Friedrich Merz have warned Iran "not to take any further action that could destabilise the region" following the US strikes on Iran.
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Last night, President Donald Trump confirmed three nuclear sites - Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan - were bombed in a move that has shocked the world.
Keir Starmer held an emergency COBRA meeting, as he said Britain is doing "everything we can to stabilise the situation".
The leaders of the UK, France and Germany discussed the Middle East crisis on Sunday.
In a joint statement they said: "We have consistently been clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon and can no longer pose a threat to regional security.
"Earlier today, the United States has conducted targeted military strikes against nuclear facilities in Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan. Our aim continues to be to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
"We call upon Iran to engage in negotiations leading to an agreement that addresses all concerns associated with its nuclear programme. We stand ready to contribute to that goal in co-ordination with all parties.
"We urge Iran not to take any further action that could destabilise the region.
"We will continue our joint diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions and ensure the conflict does not intensify and spread further."
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The full statement reads: "We have discussed the latest developments in the Middle East earlier today.
"We reiterate our commitment to peace and stability for all countries in the region. We affirm our support for the security of Israel.
"We have consistently been clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon and can no longer pose a threat to regional security.
"Earlier today, the United States has conducted targeted military strikes against nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan. Our aim continues to be to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
"We call upon Iran to engage in negotiations leading to an agreement that addresses all concerns associated with its nuclear program. We stand ready to contribute to that goal in coordination with all parties.
"We urge Iran not to take any further action that could destabilize the region.
"We will continue our joint diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions and ensure the conflict does not intensify and spread further."
The UK was not involved in the strikes against Iran but was informed in advance by the US.
Earlier, Keir Starmer held an emergency COBRA meeting as he said Britain is doing "everything we can to stabilise the situation".
The Prime Minister said: "Iran's nuclear programme is a grave threat to international security.
"Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and the US has taken action to alleviate that threat.
"The situation in the Middle East remains volatile and stability in the region is a priority.
"We call on Iran to return to the negotiating table and reach a diplomatic solution to end this crisis."
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