Prime Minister Starmer was careful to outline the British position on the war with Iran at a press conference in Downing Street, London. He said there has been no question of joining US and Israeli offensive operations.
At the same time, Starmer stressed that the UK is strengthening its defensive forces in the region. Four more Typhoon fighter jets are being sent to Qatar "to strengthen our defensive efforts."
Protective shield
Britain already has a squadron stationed in Qatar, although it is unclear how many aircraft are part of it.
We will maintain a shield over British citizens in the region, and over our allies,
Starmer said, adding that "over 4,000 people have now returned to the UK on commercial flights from the United Arab Emirates."
The British military is also sending helicopters, with the aim of neutralizing drones, to Cyprus, where an Iranian drone was shot down.
Italy, in consultation with France, Spain and the Netherlands, has decided to send "naval resources" to Cyprus.
Support to neighboring countries
Prime Minister Meloni said that "Italy, like Britain, France and Germany, intends to send help" to Iran's neighboring countries, adding that Italy will assist them with air defence as well as anti-drone and anti-missile systems.
She called the Middle East crucial to Italy's and Europe's energy supply, and emphasized that the decision was also made to protect the tens of thousands of Italians in the area.
France also announced that the US has been allowed to use a French air base in the region, but emphasized that this does not apply to fighter jets or others directly involved in the war.
