Britain condemns Iranian strikes on the United Arab Emirates
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Britain condemns Iranian strikes on the United Arab Emirates

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on May 4, 2026

1 min read

· Last updated: May 4, 2026

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UK Condemns Iranian Strikes Targeting the UAE, Calls for Diplomatic Solution

British Response to Iranian Attacks in the Middle East

Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Statement

May 4 (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday condemned the Iranian drone and missile strikes targeting the United Arab Emirates.

Starmer called on Iran to engage in diplomacy to prevent further escalation in the Middle East, the prime minister's office said.

Solidarity with the UAE and Call for Diplomacy

"We stand in solidarity with the UAE and will continue to support the defence of our partners in the Gulf. This escalation must cease. Iran needs to engage meaningfully in negotiations to ensure the ceasefire in the Middle East endures, and a long-term diplomatic solution is achieved," Starmer said.

Details of the Iranian Strikes

Impact on Regional Security and Oil Infrastructure

Iran hit several ships in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday and set a UAE oil ​port ablaze, as U.S. President Donald Trump's attempt to use the U.S. Navy to free up shipping provoked the war's biggest escalation since ​a ceasefire was declared four weeks ago.

Media Coverage and Reporting

(Reporting by Mrinmay Dey in Mexico City; Editing by Tom Hogue)

Key Takeaways

  • Starmer reaffirmed support for the UAE and allies amid Iran’s damaging strikes.
  • Iran’s attacks—hitting ships in the Strait of Hormuz and a UAE oil port—triggered the biggest escalation since ceasefire four weeks ago.
  • The spike in regional tensions caused oil prices to jump roughly 5–6 %, underscoring global market volatility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the response of the UK to the Iranian strikes on the UAE?
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the strikes and called for diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation.
What did Keir Starmer urge Iran to do after the strikes?
Keir Starmer urged Iran to engage in meaningful diplomatic negotiations to achieve a lasting ceasefire.
Which area was affected by the Iranian strikes besides the UAE?
Several ships in the Strait of Hormuz were hit, and a UAE oil port was set ablaze.
What did the British government's statement emphasize regarding the Gulf partners?
The UK expressed solidarity with the UAE and a commitment to support the defence of Gulf partners.
When did the biggest escalation in the region since the ceasefire occur?
The escalation happened on Monday, four weeks after a ceasefire was declared.

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