Starmer stated that additional British fighter jets, helicopters, and a destroyer were being sent to the Middle East, and affirmed that the UK would support the defence of Saudi Arabia if needed.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Friday to discuss Iranian strikes, the Prime Minister’s office released in a press statement.
Starmer stated that additional British fighter jets, helicopters, and a destroyer were being sent to the Middle East, and affirmed that the UK would support the defence of Saudi Arabia if needed.
Salman and Starmer also discussed increased intelligence cooperation to support defensive operations and protect civilians, and agreed to stay in close touch over the coming days and weeks.
Starmer speaks with French, German, Italian leaders
Starmer also spoke with the leaders of France, Germany, and Italy on Friday about the situation in the Middle East, according to a separate statement.
The leaders condemned Iran’s “egregious” attacks and agreed on the need to coordinate closely on the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, reiterating their concern over the situation in Lebanon.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer pose at the start of the E-3 meeting, during the Munich Security Conference (MSC), in Munich, Germany February 13, 2026. (credit: Thomas Kienzle/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo)
Ukrainian President Zelensky’s drone-interception expertise was welcomed, and the leaders underlined the importance of continued support for Ukraine.
Starmer provided an update on the UK’s defensive measures to protect and reinforce partners in the region, and on efforts to support the departure of UK nationals from the Middle East through both commercial and charter flights.
Starmer speaks with King of Bahrain
On Thursday, Starmer spoke with the King of Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and briefed him on the UK’s plans to send four additional Typhoon jets to Qatar to provide defensive support to regional allies and offered further defensive cover to Bahrain.
Starmer and Khalifa agreed operational teams would work together on plans in the coming days.
Residential neighborhoods in Bahrain were targeted by Iranian attack drones Thursday night, according to US CENTCOM.