Sunak Warns Netanyahu 'Calm Heads' Must Prevail

Rishi Sunak has told Benjamin Netanyahu that “calm heads” must prevail over the conflict with Iran, as the United States said it will hit Tehran with more sanctions “in the coming days”.

- ALEXANDER BUTLER

The prime minister spoke to his Israeli counterpart, warning that “significant escalation was in no one’s interest and would only deepen insecurity in the Middle East” in the wake of Saturday’s missile and drone attack.

Israel’s war cabinet met for the third time in three days yesterday to decide on a response to what was Iran’s first direct attack on its territory.

Mr Sunak reiterated Britain’s “steadfast support for Israel’s security” and Mr Netanyahu “thanked the UK for its rapid and robust support,” Downing Street said.

“The prime minister said Iran had badly miscalculated and was increasingly isolated on the global stage, with the G7 coordinating a diplomatic response,” a spokesperson said about the leaders’ call.

“He stressed that significant escalation was in no one’s interest and would only deepen insecurity in the Middle East. This was a moment for calm heads to prevail.”