UK Backs US Strikes On Iran’s Nuclear Sites As Russia And China Condemn Action.
The United Kingdom has expressed support for the United States’ recent airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, describing Iran’s nuclear programme as a “grave threat to international security.” The move has drawn sharp criticism from Russia and China, who have condemned the attacks as violations of international law, escalating tensions in an already volatile Middle East.
UK Defends US Action
On Sunday, 22 June 2025, US forces conducted precision strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, following Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Tehran, which began on 13 June. British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer defended the US operation, stating, “Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon, and the US has taken action to alleviate that threat.” Speaking to reporters, Starmer urged Iran to return to diplomatic negotiations to prevent further escalation.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy echoed the Prime Minister’s stance, calling for Tehran to “show restraint” and re-engage in talks. The UK’s position aligns with that of other Western allies, including Australia, which also supported the strikes while emphasising the need for diplomacy. However, the UK clarified that its military assets were not involved in the operation, and it continues to advocate for a diplomatic resolution.
Russia and China Lead Condemnation
The US strikes have provoked strong rebukes from Russia and China, both of whom labelled the action a breach of the United Nations Charter. Russia’s Foreign Ministry described the bombings as an “irresponsible decision” that flagrantly violates international law, urging an immediate cessation of hostilities. “Such actions plunge humanity into a crisis with irreversible consequences,” the ministry stated, according to Al Jazeera.
China’s Foreign Ministry similarly condemned the strikes, asserting that they exacerbate tensions in the Middle East and undermine regional stability. A spokesperson called for all parties, particularly Israel, to pursue a ceasefire and resume dialogue, reaffirming Beijing’s readiness to support peace efforts. In a phone call earlier this week, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin jointly condemned Israel’s initial strikes on Iran, with Xi urging “major powers” to de-escalate rather than fuel the conflict.
At an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting on Sunday, Russia, China, and Pakistan proposed a resolution calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the Middle East. The draft, which does not explicitly name the US or Israel, is unlikely to pass due to potential opposition from Washington. UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the US strikes as a “dangerous escalation,” warning of catastrophic consequences for the region and beyond.
Iran’s Response and Regional Fallout
Iranian officials have vowed to retaliate, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi branding the US operation an “outrageous violation” of international law. Speaking in Istanbul, Araghchi said Iran reserves “all options” to defend its sovereignty and security interests. Reports suggest Iran’s parliament is considering closing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route, though no final decision has been confirmed.
The strikes have intensified the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, which has seen both nations exchange missile and drone attacks since mid-June. Israel’s initial assault targeted Iranian nuclear facilities and military commanders, killing at least 78 people, according to Iran’s Fars news agency. Iran retaliated with missile strikes, resulting in casualties on both sides.
Regional reactions vary widely. Yemen’s Houthi movement, an Iranian ally, described the US strikes as “cowardly” and vowed to strengthen Tehran’s regional alliances. Hamas and Hezbollah, also backed by Iran, condemned the attacks as “barbaric” and “treacherous,” respectively. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia expressed “great concern,” and Oman denounced the strikes as a violation of international law, reflecting unease among Gulf states.
The US strikes, carried out by B-2 stealth bombers, targeted deeply buried nuclear facilities, with President Donald Trump claiming they “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear capabilities. However, the UN’s nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, said it could not fully assess the damage at Fordow, and Iran insists its nuclear knowledge remains intact.
The conflict has raised fears of a broader war, with potential economic repercussions. Brent crude oil prices surged to $80.28 per barrel on Sunday, reflecting concerns over possible disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of global oil passes.
As Iran’s Foreign Minister travels to Moscow to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, the international community braces for Tehran’s response. The UK, alongside its allies, continues to call for de-escalation, but with diplomatic efforts stalled and military tensions rising, the path to peace remains uncertain.
