Britain's finance minister signals possible support for Israel in Iran conflict
Britain could potentially support Israel in its conflict with Iran, but the decision to send additional military jets to the Middle East was made mainly to protect British bases and personnel, British finance minister Rachel Reeves said on Sunday.
Israel and Iran launched fresh attacks on each other overnight into Sunday. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attacks by Israel so far were nothing compared with what Iran would see in the coming days.
Speaking to Sky News, Reeves called for a de-escalation in the conflict and said the decision to send additional jets to the region was a 'precautionary move.'
Asked if Britain would come to Israel's aid if asked, Reeves said: 'We have, in the past, supported Israel when there have been missiles coming in.'
She added: 'We're sending in assets to both protect ourselves and also potentially to support our allies.'
Britain was involved last year in protecting Israel from missile attacks from Iran. In April, British planes shot down Iranian drones heading for Israel and in October it said two of its fighter jets and an air-to-air refueling tanker were involved in trying to intercept Iranian missiles. The jets did not engage any targets.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arab News
32 minutes ago
- Arab News
Saudi foundation displays projects at Dutch ‘GreenTech' exhibition
RIYADH: The Vegetation Cover Development Foundation, known as Morooj, presented its flagship projects as part of the Saudi delegation at Greentech Amsterdam, an international exhibition for horticulture held from June 10-12 in the Dutch capital. Morooj highlighted its technical and operational capabilities, as well as its innovative environmental solutions based on best practices and global standards. The foundation also presented examples of its strategic partnerships with various government and private sectors, as well as with international organizations. The foundation's CEO, Wael Bushah, said that its participation in GreenTech further demonstrates the Kingdom's efforts to reinforce its leadership in the environmental sector on an international level. The projects displayed included the planting of millions of mangrove trees, greening mosque areas, promoting community participation in environmental sanitation campaigns, and efforts to rehabilitate natural reserves in various regions of the Kingdom, all of which fall under the Saudi Green Initiative. The foundation's CEO, Wael Bushah, said that its participation in GreenTech further demonstrates the Kingdom's efforts to reinforce its leadership in the environmental sector on an international level. The exhibition, one of the world's leading events focused on environmental innovations and sustainable agricultural technologies, is also an opportunity to build new partnerships and exchange expertise on the latest innovations in sustainable agriculture, afforestation, and ecosystem restoration. Ultimately, Murooj aims to become an interactive platform for knowledge transfer and application, creating meaningful environmental and social impact in the Kingdom. The foundation's role of strengthening its international presence and exchanging successful experiences with various global environmental entities and organizations has been crucial to achieving the objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative, founded under Saudi Vision 2030. SGI, which celebrated its second anniversary earlier this year, has reinforced the Kingdom's ambitions to become a key contributor to global efforts to combat climate change and enhance environmental sustainability by promoting renewable energy, protecting terrestrial and marine areas, and reaching net-zero domestically by 2060, among other initiatives.
Arab News
42 minutes ago
- Arab News
Investment Ministry supports launch of new health & fitness event ‘FIBO Arabia'
The Ministry of Investment for Saudi Arabia and its Sport Sector Team have signed an investment agreement with RX Arabia to support the launch of FIBO Arabia in the Kingdom. The annual show brings together key players from the health, fitness, and wellness sectors to create a platform for innovations, investments, and trends tailored to an active lifestyle. The event will debut at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center from Oct. 1-3. Organized by RX, a global leader in events and exhibitions, and under the theme for a strong and healthy society, FIBO Arabia is already 60 percent sold out following a successful sales launch at FIBO's flagship trade show in Cologne, Germany last month. There, 1,200 exhibitors and partners from 60 nations and 154,748 visitors from 129 countries were welcomed. The launch of FIBO Arabia coincides with the Saudi government's significant support for investing in the country's sports sector as part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 strategy to diversify its economy. The government aims to increase sports spending by $22 billion by 2030, encompassing sports clubs, academies, sportswear and equipment, and sports facilities. Vasyl Zhygalo, managing director, Middle East and emerging markets, RX: 'We are honored that the Ministry of Investment for Saudi Arabia is supporting the launch of FIBO Arabia. This underscores the importance of health and fitness to the Saudi Arabian government and highlights its investment-friendly attitude toward overseas entrepreneurs and progressive companies that want to invest in their health and fitness sector.' The country's focus on becoming a global sports hub is underscored by the announcement of major events set to take place in Saudi Arabia, including the 2034 FIFA World Cup, 2027 AFC Asian Cup, and the 2029 Asian Winter Games. Furthermore, according to Gymnation, which operates a chain of fitness centers in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, the Saudi fitness market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 9.7 percent between now and 2032 when the health and fitness market is projected to be worth $2.28 billion. Basim K. Ibrahim, sport sector investment development director, at the ministry added: 'FIBO Arabia represents a pivotal platform in advancing Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals by promoting a culture of fitness and wellness while also highlighting the Kingdom's growing potential as a hub for investment within this sector. With increasing emphasis on exercise, sports, and well-being across the Kingdom, the event provides a vital opportunity for international and local brands to showcase the latest innovations and technologies in the industry.' We look forward to the positive impact FIBO Arabia will have on our communities and the exciting prospects it will unlock for the future.' Over the course of three dynamic days, FIBO Arabia will offer unparalleled opportunities for building businesses, networking, and educating at the highest level. Professional development will be a key focus of the show, with FIBO Arabia hosting a series of expert-led workshops, seminars, and keynote sessions.
Arab News
42 minutes ago
- Arab News
A Saudi perspective on security, diplomacy and human dignity
As a Saudi national, I view the Middle East's complex challenges through the lens of my country's commitment to regional stability, Islamic values and Vision 2030's aspirations for sustainable development. The new escalation between Israel and Iran, marked by Israeli airstrikes authorized by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, underscores the urgent need for a balanced approach to security, diplomacy and human dignity. These strikes, ostensibly aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear ambitions, risk plunging the region into broader conflict, potentially involving global powers like the US. From a Saudi perspective, fostering sustainable peace requires de-escalation, inclusive dialogue and addressing the root causes of conflict, such as economic disparity and political marginalization. Israel's airstrikes on Iran, justified as a response to Iran's nuclear program reaching 60 percent uranium enrichment, have heightened regional tensions. However, the timing, amid Netanyahu's domestic political struggles and waning support for military operations in Gaza, suggests ulterior motives. Critics argue that these actions may serve to bolster Netanyahu's position, deflecting attention from his legal and political challenges. As a Saudi observer, I see this as a risky gambit that could accelerate Iran's nuclear ambitions rather than deter them, threatening the entire region's stability. Saudi Arabia, alongside other Gulf Cooperation Council nations, has condemned these airstrikes as a violation of Iran's sovereignty and international law. This stance reflects our commitment to regional stability and opposition to actions that undermine mutual respect among nations. The Kingdom's condemnation is not merely rhetorical; it signals a broader call for de-escalation and dialogue to prevent a wider conflict that could destabilize the Middle East and impact global energy markets, a critical concern for Saudi Arabia. Western policies, particularly those of the US, have often prioritized geopolitical dominance over sustainable peacebuilding. The US-Israel relationship, shaped partly by the influential Israel lobby, as described by scholars John Mearsheimer and Stephen Walt, has aligned American foreign policy with Israel's immediate security concerns. While this partnership has strengthened bilateral ties, it has sometimes overlooked the long-term consequences for regional stability. The US-led invasion of Iraq, for instance, destabilized the region, weakened Arab states and fueled populism and extremism challenges that persist today. From a Saudi perspective, the fragility of many Arab states, compounded by ineffective leadership and rising nationalism, underscores the need for a strategic pivot. The US cannot sustain flawed policies indefinitely, as the human and economic costs of interventions like Iraq demonstrate. Saudi Arabia welcomes recent US restraint, with figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasizing that American priorities lie in protecting its forces rather than endorsing Israel's strikes on Iran. This shift opens space for diplomacy, which Saudi Arabia is well positioned to champion. Saudi Arabia holds a unique position in the Middle East, rooted in its religious significance as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and its foreign policy being aimed at fostering stability. The Kingdom's Vision 2030 emphasizes sustainable development and economic diversification, aligning with the broader goal of regional cooperation. In the context of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands, Saudi Arabia has advocated for the Arab Peace Initiative, which offers normalization with Israel in exchange for a two-state solution. This framework reflects our commitment to balancing security with justice and addressing Palestinian aspirations, while fostering regional collaboration. Two peace frameworks merit consideration: the two-state solution and the two-return solution. The two-state solution envisions an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, promoting mutual recognition and security cooperation. The two-return solution, meanwhile, addresses historical grievances by proposing compensation and recognition of both Palestinian and Jewish narratives to facilitate reconciliation. Fostering sustainable peace requires de-escalation, inclusive dialogue and addressing the root causes of conflict. Dr. Turki Faisal Al-Rasheed Both approaches face challenges from Israeli settlement expansion, Palestinian governance fragmentation and skepticism about Israel's commitment to peace, but Saudi Arabia's mediation can bridge divides. By promoting adherence to international law and partnering with global stakeholders, the Kingdom can advance a comprehensive approach that integrates humanitarian and economic considerations. Israel's current policies under Netanyahu, including its operations in Gaza and efforts to neutralize Iran's nuclear capabilities, prioritize immediate security but risk long-term consequences. The pursuit of 'total victory' in Gaza and aggressive posturing toward Iran may isolate Israel diplomatically, strain its alliances and impact US interests and Jewish communities worldwide. From a Saudi perspective, sustainable security for Israel and the region requires integrating robust defense with diplomacy that tackles conflict drivers like economic inequality and political marginalization. Netanyahu's actions, driven partly by domestic pressures, risk dragging the region into chaos. As a Saudi national, I join global voices opposing leaders who exploit fear to justify escalation. The Kingdom's condemnation of Israel's airstrikes on Iran reflects our broader stance against unilateral actions that undermine sovereignty and stability. Instead, we advocate for dialogue, economic development and countering extremism to create a cooperative framework for the region. The ongoing crisis in Gaza demands urgent attention. The humanitarian toll, marked by significant loss of life and suffering, requires immediate international action focused on de-escalation and relief. Saudi Arabia, in alignment with the other GCC nations, calls for responsible leadership rooted in empathy for both Palestinian and Israeli communities. Breaking cycles of violence hinges on fostering dialogue and trust, addressing not only security concerns but also the human dignity of all stakeholders. Historical conflicts in the region, from Iraq to Syria, highlight the necessity of inclusive partnerships built on mutual respect. Aspirations for peace, echoed by figures like US President Donald Trump, who has positioned himself as a potential peacemaker, depend on balanced collaboration. Saudi Arabia and other Arab states hold strategic leverage to counter foreign interference and extremist threats, aligning with a shared vision of stability and prosperity. The Middle East's future remains uncertain, with the Israel-Iran conflict of 2025 raising more questions than answers. The efficacy of Israel's military actions, the potential for US-Iran negotiations and the political fallout in both nations are yet to be fully understood. What is clear, however, is the need for all stakeholders — Western governments, Israel, Arab states and the international community — to prioritize human dignity and de-escalation. Saudi Arabia's leadership, grounded in its religious and geopolitical influence, seeks to foster dialogue, promote equitable development and reduce external interference. By advocating for frameworks like the Arab Peace Initiative and supporting inclusive peace processes, the Kingdom can help pave the way for a stable and prosperous Middle East. Sustainable peace demands not only strategic restraint but also a shared commitment to cooperation, mutual prosperity and respect for all communities. In conclusion, as a Saudi national, I believe that fostering sustainable peace in the Middle East requires moving beyond military escalation to embrace diplomacy and human dignity. The Kingdom's role as a mediator, coupled with its vision for regional stability, offers hope for a future where dialogue triumphs over conflict and cooperation replaces division. The path forward is challenging, but with collective resolve we can build a Middle East defined by peace and prosperity for all.
