UK Launches Emergency Evacuations From Middle East Hotspot
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has confirmed that 63 Britons and their families have been airlifted from Israel to Cyprus on a Royal Air Force (RAF) evacuation flight amid escalating Israel-Iran tensions.
Speaking in the Commons, Lammy revealed the evacuees will be brought back to the UK “this evening.” He added that more RAF flights are on the way to rescue vulnerable British nationals still trapped in the region.
“This is a perilous moment in the Middle East. Our first priority is the safety of British nationals,” Lammy told MPs.
The Foreign Office urgently launched a booking portal to help UK citizens in Israel book evacuation flights. Officials confirmed those most at risk will be fast-tracked for exit.
Chief Rabbi Among Evacuees on RAF Flight
Sources reveal that Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis was onboard the evacuation flight. He had been in Israel at the time and is expected to touch down safely in the UK by tonight.
Qatar Brits Told to “Shelter in Place” After US Security Alert
Lammy also issued a stark safety warning to British nationals in Qatar following a US security alert.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we now recommend all UK citizens in Qatar shelter in place until further notice,” he said.
UK Government Hits Out at Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions
Lammy emphasised that Britain was not involved in recent US or Israeli strikes but doubled down on the UK’s tough stance on Iran’s nuclear programme.
“Iran must never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. We’ve long had concerns about the country’s nuclear programme,”
He added that Iran is now enriching uranium to 60% purity—well beyond anything justified for civilian use.
One Briton Injured in Israeli Strikes
The Foreign Secretary confirmed that one British national has been injured during recent attacks in Israel. No further details on the person’s identity or condition have been released.
