UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer strongly condemned Iran's aggressive actions across the Middle East during a phone call with UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Sunday, March 8, 2026. The two leaders discussed regional stability and bilateral cooperation amidst recent indiscriminate attacks by Iran, which have significantly raised tensions and threatened civilian safety. Starmer emphasized the United Kingdom's solidarity with its Gulf partners and thanked the UAE for its continued support for British nationals in the country.[thejournalistic+5]
Prime Minister Condemns Iranian Aggression
During the call, Prime Minister Starmer opened by condemning Iran's aggressive actions throughout the region. He highlighted that these actions have led to increased tensions and posed a threat to the safety of civilians. The British leader specifically noted that Iran's "blatant attacks" continue to target the UAE and other countries in the region. These attacks, he stated, represent a clear violation of national sovereignty and endanger regional security and stability.[thejournalistic+4]
The Prime Minister reiterated the UK's firm solidarity with the UAE as it faces ongoing missile and drone strikes from Iran. He thanked President Sheikh Mohamed for the UAE's efforts in ensuring the safety of British citizens residing in the country during these challenging circumstances. Starmer also updated President Sheikh Mohamed on the UK government's coordination with commercial airlines and UAE authorities to potentially increase flight capacity back to the United Kingdom for British nationals who wish to leave the region.[thenationalnews+5]
UK Bolsters Gulf Security Efforts
The discussion also focused on crucial defense cooperation between the two nations. Prime Minister Starmer highlighted the United Kingdom's ongoing support for Gulf security. This support includes the deployment of Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon jets to assist partners in the region. Additionally, British counter-drone advisers have been actively working alongside UAE military specialists. This collaboration aims to bolster defensive operations against airborne threats and protect vital regional infrastructure.[thejournalistic+3]
The Prime Minister underscored that this joint effort is a critical component of wider initiatives to counter threats from the air. He stressed the importance of protecting key infrastructure across the Middle East. The UK's commitment to regional security is a long-standing one, and these measures reflect the ongoing partnership with the UAE to address shared security concerns.[thejournalistic+1]
Leaders Call for De-escalation and Stability
Both Prime Minister Starmer and President Sheikh Mohamed stressed the severe implications of military escalation in the region. They agreed on the urgent need to halt the escalation and prevent a widening of the conflict. The leaders reaffirmed the importance of preserving regional security and stability across the Middle East. President Sheikh Mohamed thanked Prime Minister Starmer for the United Kingdom's supportive stance towards the UAE.[thenationalnews+12]
The ongoing tensions in the Gulf region have kept countries on heightened alert. Recent missile and drone attacks have targeted several Gulf nations, leading to disruptions, including the brief closure of Dubai's airspace. Officials in the UAE have consistently reassured residents and businesses that the country's security systems remain fully operational, with defense infrastructure actively intercepting incoming threats. The call between the two leaders underscores the strong partnership between the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates in navigating these complex regional challenges. They committed to maintaining close contact as the situation develops.[gulfbusiness+4]
