The UK continues to work with likeminded partners towards
de-escalation in the Middle East, as Foreign Secretary arrives in
region to drive efforts towards security and stability, and to
press for an end to the cycle of violence which intensified
following the atrocities of October 7.
In talks with leaders in Bahrain and Jordan, key regional
partners for the UK, the Foreign Secretary will reiterate the
UK's concern over the risk of escalation and miscalculation in
the region and underline our call for an immediate ceasefire in
Gaza and Lebanon.
He will reaffirm the importance of working with regional partners
to press the case for restraint and will demand Iran and its
proxies stop their attacks which are causing chaos and
destruction for the region and its people. This follows the UK's
condemnation of Iran's actions against Israel last week which
risked plunging the region into a deeper crisis.
Foreign Secretary said:
"The situation is incredibly dangerous and further escalation
or miscalculation in the region is in no one's
interests.
“I am pleased to be back in the region to meet with our key
partners in Bahrain and Jordan and see firsthand our combined
efforts towards building long-term security and stability in the
Middle East.
“We must not waver at this critical period to achieve
ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon, to get more desperately needed
aid into Gaza, and secure the release of all
hostages.
“Our nations share deep-rooted partnerships across defence,
trade, and security, which I look forward to building
upon.”
During his time in Bahrain, the Foreign Secretary will meet with
UK Armed Forces personnel who are helping to maintain Gulf
Security, including commercial shipping in the Red Sea. He will
tour HMS Lancaster which is deployed in the region and has a
played a key role in patrolling the waters to detect and deter
Houthi activity. His visit underscores the UK's commitment to
confronting shared threats in the region.
He will meet with senior figures and will lead talks on regional
security and prosperity, including forging greater business ties.
Trade between the UK and the Gulf Cooperation Council is worth
more than £57 billion, with investors from the region making up
an important delegation at the UK International Investment Summit
next week.
While in Jordan, he will meet with senior leaders, including
Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, and express the UK's support for
the country's role in delivering much needed humanitarian aid for
the people of Gaza.
