UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer conducted a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday, urging Iran to refrain from attacking Israel and emphasizing that war serves no one’s interests.
The call, reported by the Prime Minister’s office, was part of broader efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East.
During the discussion, Starmer expressed deep concerns about the volatile situation in the region and called on all parties to cease escalation and avoid further confrontations. He highlighted the significant risk of miscalculation and stressed the need for calm and thoughtful deliberation at this critical juncture.
Starmer committed to an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza. He underscored the importance of focusing on diplomatic negotiations to resolve the ongoing crises.
The British Prime Minister and Pezeshkian agreed that constructive dialogue between their countries is mutually beneficial. However, Starmer noted that enhanced dialogue can only be achieved if Iran ceases its “destabilizing actions,” including threats within the UK and its support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The call followed recent threats by Iran to retaliate against Israel for the killing of Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah military leader Fouad Shukr in Beirut.
This conversation also came after Starmer’s discussions with U.S. President Joe Biden and other European allies earlier on the same day.
