The recent escalation of conflict involving Iran's missile attack on Israel has prompted significant responses from UK forces and political leaders. On October 1, 2024, Iran launched its largest missile assault on Israel, firing approximately 180 ballistic missiles. This offensive was reportedly in retaliation for the assassinations of key Iranian-affiliated figures by Israeli forces . Although many missiles were intercepted by Israeli defenses and allied support, the attack resulted in casualties and raised considerable concern regarding regional stability.
The BBC understands UK fighter jets were involved, as they were in April when Iran last attacked Israel with missiles.
Responding on Tuesday to Iran's attack, which the Israeli military said involved 180 missiles being fired with most intercepted, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the UK "stands with Israel" and recognises its right to self-defence.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had launched the missiles in retaliation for recent attacks that killed the leaders of the Hezbollah and Hamas militant groups, as well as a senior Iranian commander.
Healey said: "British forces have this evening played their part in attempts to prevent further escalation in the Middle East.
US defence secretary tells Israeli counterpart Iran attack an 'outrageous act of aggression'
The US defence secretary, Lloyd Austin, has said he spoke with the Israeli minister of defence, Yoav Gallant, telling him that the attack from Iran was an “outrageous act of aggression”.
The Minister and I expressed mutual appreciation for the coordinated defense of Israel against nearly 200 ballistic missiles launched by Iran and committed to remain in close contact.
I spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today following today’s outrageous act of aggression by Iran against Israel. The Minister and I expressed mutual appreciation for the coordinated defense of Israel against nearly 200 ballistic missiles launched by Iran and…
Iran's IRGC said Tehran's response would be "more crushing and ruinous" if Israel retaliated.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military carried out new air strikes in Beirut against Hezbollah targets overnight after warning residents to move out of the city's southern suburbs where the group has a presence.
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