Starmer 'kept in the dark' about Israel's attack on Iran amid anger over Labour's criticism of war in Gaza
Keir Starmer was 'kept in the dark' about Israel 's audacious attack on Iran, amid growing tensions between London and Tel Aviv.
In a major diplomatic snub, insiders said Benjamin Netanyahu gave the Prime Minister no notice of his plan to mount bombing raids against Iran's nuclear facilities and military chiefs last night.
Reacting this morning, Sir Keir described reports of the bombing raids as 'concerning' and urged all parties in the region to 'step back and reduce tensions urgently'.
He added: 'Escalation serves no one in the region.
'Stability in the Middle East must be the priority and we are engaging partners to de-escalate. Now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy.'
Foreign Secretary David Lammy cancelled plans to travel to the US this morning in order to hold crisis talks in Whitehall.
Mr Lammy said: 'Stability in the Middle East is vital for global security.
'I'm concerned to see reports of strikes overnight. Further escalation is a serious threat to peace and stability in the region and in no one's interest.
'This is a dangerous moment and I urge all parties to show restraint.'
Downing Street declined to comment on whether it was given advance notice of the raid. But one government insider claimed the PM was 'kept in the dark'.
The snub came despite the UK's role in helping defend Israel against attacks by Iran and its allies, such as the Houthi militia, in recent months.
It reflects growing Israeli anger over Labour's criticism of the country's military offensive in Gaza.
One diplomatic source said: 'The recent actions and rhetoric of the Labour Government have caused huge concern in Israel. People are questioning whether the UK is still an ally that can be relied on.'
The Israeli government has been infuriated by recent actions by the UK, which included restricting arms sales, breaking off trade talks and sanctioning two members of the Israeli cabinet.
But Sir Keir has described Israel's new military action in Israel - and the restrictions on food aid - as 'unacceptable'.
Labour MPs are piling on pressure to go further by halting all arms sales, boycotting Israeli goods and formally recognising the state of Palestine.
Despite the row, government sources played down reports that the UK would refuse to offer military assistance to Israel in defending itself against reprisals from Iran.
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