The United Kingdom has rejected threats from Iran, with Defence Secretary Wes Streeting insisting that Britain is prepared to respond to any attack against the country or its allies.
Speaking to the BBC, Streeting described recent warnings from Tehran as “sabre-rattling” and said Britain would not be intimidated. Iran has accused the UK of becoming a legitimate target because of its support for the United States and Israel.
“We stand ready to respond to any attacks Iran wishes to wage against this country or our allies,” Streeting said.
UK Rules Out Offensive Military Action Against Iran
Streeting reaffirmed that Britain has not joined US offensive military operations against Iran and does not intend to do so.
However, the UK has allowed the United States to use British bases for defensive operations involving American personnel and aircraft.
The defence secretary said Britain remains committed to protecting international shipping and maintaining freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Britain Plans Naval Role in Strait of Hormuz
Maritime security remains a major concern for the British government.
Streeting said he was due to meet US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth to discuss defence cooperation between the two countries.
He also confirmed that Britain could lead a naval operation to help clear sea mines from the Strait of Hormuz once conditions become safe.
The waterway is strategically important because a major disruption could affect global energy supplies, increase oil prices and place additional pressure on household costs.
Russia Remains a Major Security Concern
Streeting also criticised Russia over a recent live-fire naval exercise in the English Channel.
He described the Russian operation as “performative” and accused Moscow of acting in an unsafe and unprofessional manner.
According to the defence secretary, Russia remains a significant security challenge for Britain. He said British forces work continuously to monitor and counter Russian activities, including operations that receive little public attention.
UK Maintains Independent Defence Policy
Despite growing tensions involving Iran and Russia, Streeting said Britain would continue working closely with its international allies while maintaining its own decision-making authority.
The government insists that Britain will defend its territory, protect its allies and support freedom of navigation without automatically joining offensive military operations led by other countries.
The comments come as tensions in the Middle East and Europe continue to place pressure on Britain’s defence and foreign policy.
