UK moves jets to Middle East as Starmer refuses to rule out defending Israel

Iran’s options are limited but, feeling encircled, Tehran may assess it has no choice but to take risks that were previously unthinkable,” Ozcelik said. “This is why continued calls for de-escalation by the UK government matter. But diplomacy cannot come at the expense of preparedness; London will almost certainly pair its messaging with elevated military readiness, anticipating that Iran – under pressure and with fewer off-ramps – may resort to escalation either by design or miscalculation.”