UK Operation to Support British Nationals in Gulf
The UK is initiating an operation to assist at least 200,000 British nationals located in the Gulf region, as Iran continues to conduct strikes in response to ongoing attacks by Israel and the US.
More than 94,000 Britons have registered their location and contact details to receive direct updates from the Foreign Office. The majority of these individuals are holidaymakers in the United Arab Emirates or people in transit at major hub airports.
Government officials are reportedly developing contingency plans to evacuate UK nationals if airspace in the region remains closed.
Flights have been diverted or cancelled, affecting journeys to and from Tel Aviv, Dubai, Doha, and other international hubs.
The government has requested British nationals in Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, the Palestinian territories, Qatar, and the UAE to register their presence to receive updates.
Currently, British nationals are advised to remain where they are, follow instructions from local authorities, and monitor the Foreign Office's travel advice, which officials anticipate will change rapidly.
Prime Minister's Statement on the Situation
Speaking on Sunday evening, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that at least 200,000 British citizens are in the region, including residents, families on holiday, and those in transit.
"Iran had launched sustained attacks across the region and had 'hit airports and hotels where British citizens are staying'.
"I ask all our people in the region to please register your presence and follow Foreign Office travel advice," he added.
"I know this is a deeply worrying time. And we will continue to do all we can to support you."
British nationals transiting through Dubai and Doha are advised to remain indoors in secure locations and avoid travelling outside if possible.
Government Crisis Response and Regional Developments
This marks the first time the government's crisis response programme has covered more than one country and has managed such a large number of people.
Government officials have informed the BBC that the number of registered British nationals is expected to rise in the coming hours.
The Israeli military reported continued strikes on sites in central Tehran following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in an airstrike on Saturday morning.
Iran has pledged to retaliate with "devastating blows" and has launched missiles at several neighbouring countries as well as US military targets.
In Dubai, residents have largely remained indoors as the city has been targeted by missiles and drones, resulting in damage to luxury hotels and its main airport, which is the world's busiest by passenger traffic.
Elsewhere, UK nationals in Saudi Arabia have been instructed to "remain indoors in a secure location," while those in Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, and Turkey have been advised to "remain vigilant" and take shelter if directed.
It is understood that no British nationals have been killed or injured so far in the conflict.
Defence Secretary John Healey stated that approximately 300 UK troops were within "a few hundred yards" of an Iranian strike on a base in Bahrain.
Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer has communicated with regional leaders to express his "solidarity" amid the "dangerous Iranian escalation."
The UK did not participate in the strikes on Saturday, but British aircraft are conducting patrols in the Middle East as part of a defensive operation. On Sunday, an RAF Typhoon jet operating out of Qatar shot down an Iranian drone, according to the Ministry of Defence.
