UK Won't Be Intimidated by Iran Threats, Wes Streeting Says

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has said the UK will not be intimidated by Iran's recent threats, describing the country's rhetoric as "sabre-rattling" and insisting Britain is prepared to respond to any attack against itself or its allies.

Iran declared last week that the UK was a legitimate target because of its support for the US and Israel during the conflict with Tehran.

Iran warning dismissed

Speaking to the BBC, Streeting said Britain should not place "too much stock" in Iran's statements.

"We stand ready to respond to any attacks Iran wishes to wage against this country or our allies and we will continue to do that," he said.

UK limits role in military action

Streeting reiterated that Britain has not taken part in offensive US military operations against Iran and has no plans to do so.

The UK has, however, allowed the US to use British bases hosting American personnel and aircraft for what it describes as defensive operations.

Asked whether Iran had the capability to strike the UK, Streeting again played down the threat, saying the government would not be intimidated by the regime's recent remarks.

He also stressed that while London has differed from Washington over offensive military action, the two countries remain aligned on protecting maritime security and ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Naval mission and Russia concerns

Streeting said he is due to meet US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in the coming week after discussing ideas to strengthen cooperation between the two countries. He added that he had already spoken to Hegseth by telephone.

The defence secretary also said Britain is prepared to lead a naval mission to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz when conditions allow.

He said maintaining secure shipping routes through the strategic waterway was important because disruption there affects global energy prices and the cost of living.

Separately, Streeting criticised a recent live-firing exercise by a Russian warship in the English Channel, describing it as "performative" and "irresponsible".

He said the incident highlighted what he called Russia's unsafe and unprofessional conduct, adding that Moscow continues to pose a threat to UK security.

Streeting also said the public was largely unaware of the extensive daily efforts undertaken to counter Russian aggression.

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27 July 2026