UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has accused Iran of stepping up what he described as “reckless” military strikes amid rapidly escalating tensions across the Middle East, warning that the risk of wider regional instability is growing.

His remarks came as cross-border exchanges involving Iranian-backed forces and regional adversaries intensified over recent days.

Starmer said Britain was closely monitoring developments following a surge in missile and drone activity linked to Iran and its allied groups.

He stressed that further escalation would threaten civilian lives and undermine broader diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilising the region.

The prime minister urged restraint from all parties while reaffirming the United Kingdom’s commitment to protecting its personnel and supporting allies.

The comments were delivered against a backdrop of heightened speculation and conflicting reports circulating online regarding Iran’s senior leadership.

However, there has been no verified international confirmation of any change in Iran’s supreme leadership, and Iranian state institutions continue to function publicly.

British officials emphasised that London’s immediate focus remains on de-escalation and deterrence.

The government has maintained communication with regional partners and reiterated calls for Iran to halt actions that could widen the conflict.

Defence sources confirmed that UK assets in the region remain on alert, though Britain is not engaged in offensive operations.

The situation has drawn international concern as missile and drone exchanges expand beyond immediate flashpoints, raising fears of miscalculation.

Analysts note that the growing tempo of strikes increases the likelihood of broader confrontation involving multiple state and non-state actors.

Starmer underscored that while the UK supports efforts to counter destabilising behaviour, long-term security cannot be achieved through uncontrolled escalation.

He called for renewed diplomatic engagement to prevent further deterioration, warning that continued strikes risk drawing additional countries into an already volatile crisis.