Constituents with family, friends or connections in the Middle East will understandably be deeply concerned by the recent escalation of air attacks across the region, and by the wider ongoing conflict.
There are strongly held and often opposing views among constituents about the recent military actions involving the United States, Israel and Iran, the wider regional dynamics, and what the UK’s role should be.
In all conflicts it is innocent civilians who suffer most. Homes, schools and hospitals are too often damaged or destroyed, with tragic and avoidable loss of life. A full scale war benefits no one and should be avoided not embraced.
The UK was not involved in the original strikes. The Prime Minister was clear in his statement to Parliament that any military action must have a firm legal basis. At this stage, the UK must work closely with our allies while adhering firmly to international law. The priority must be de-escalation, the protection of civilians, and the safety of around 200,000 British nationals in the region.
The Government has stated that this will now include supporting the defence of neighbouring countries from indiscriminate Iranian missile attacks, including through the use of UK air bases in the region, and that plans are being prepared to evacuate British citizens.
Beyond the immediate crisis, it is important to recognise the UK’s longstanding concerns about the conduct of the Iranian regime, including its repression and killing of protesters, the oppression of women and girls, and support to armed groups beyond its borders. There are also serious concerns about its destabilising activities such as hostile cyber activity impacting the UK and our allies, and the supply of military equipment to Russia for use in its illegal and unjustified war in Ukraine, undermining security in Europe.
However, a further destabilised Middle East at a time when the region is already grappling with the devastating consequences of conflict between Israel and Gaza would pose significant risks to global and UK security. Escalation risks a spiralling wider regional conflict, loss of life, and the inevitable disruption to global shipping routes and the supply of critical goods around the world.
Avoiding further escalation, finding a negotiated path to peace, and upholding international law must remain the priority.
We must also consider the further impact on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which remains acute. Humanitarian access must be protected and vital aid routes kept open so civilians can receive food, water and medical care.
𝗦𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁:
The urgent response from the UK to British citizens in the affected region is being coordinated by the Foreign Office.
For the latest UK Foreign Office travel and safety guidance, please visit:
www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
As always, my office stands ready to support constituents with any individual consular concerns. Please ask anyone directly affected to email Jim.McMahon.MP@Parliament.UK and ask that they include their usual residential address in Oldham West, Chadderton or Royton.
Extending the vote to 16 and 17 year olds
Jim McMahon OBE MP 