London, June 22: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has voiced support for the United States’ recent "precision" airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, describing Iran's nuclear program as a "grave threat" to international security and urging Tehran to pursue a diplomatic path.
In a statement posted on X, Starmer 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.”
Starmer also noted that the U.S. action had helped reduce the immediate threat to Israel.
His remarks follow the announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump that the United States had launched "massive precision" strikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities, warning that further military action could follow if peace was not restored.
In response to the escalating tensions, Rafael Grossi, Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), announced that an emergency meeting would be held on Monday to assess the situation. The IAEA confirmed that, as of now, no increase in off-site radiation levels has been detected following the strikes, which reportedly targeted three major nuclear sites, including the underground enrichment facility at Fordow.
“Following attacks on three nuclear sites in Iran—including Fordow—the IAEA can confirm that no increase in off-site radiation levels has been reported as of this time. The IAEA will provide further assessments as more information becomes available,” the agency said in a statement.
Iran has condemned the strikes, calling them a violation of international law and reaffirming its commitment to continue its nuclear activities. In a strongly worded statement, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) described the attacks as “savage aggression” and criticized the IAEA’s perceived complicity.
“This action, which violates international regulations, unfortunately took place under the indifference—and even complicity—of the International Atomic Energy Agency,” the AEOI said.
As tensions continue to mount in the region, global leaders are closely monitoring developments, with renewed calls for de-escalation and a return to diplomatic engagement.
(With agency inputs)
