Starmer praises Muslims and defends UK Iran policy at Westminster iftar

Middle Eastern outlets describe Iran as trying to draw clear red lines by saying it will not hit neighbours unless attacked from their territory, while warning that any European role in US-Israeli strikes would make those countries targets. They stress that public opinion in Europe is largely against the current attacks on Iran and that some European leaders, such as in the UK, are hesitant to join. This block expects Iran to avoid widening the conflict to nearby states like Qatar or Oman unless they host attacks, but to respond harshly if European militaries directly participate.

• •Iranian officials state that Tehran will suspend strikes on neighbouring countries unless attacks on Iran are launched from their soil.
• •Iran warns that European states joining US and Israeli strikes will be treated as "legitimate targets" for Iranian retaliation.
• •Middle Eastern coverage highlights polls showing a majority of Europeans oppose US and Israeli military action against Iran.
• •Reports from the region note that the UK prime minister has so far refused to join the strikes despite pressure from allies.
• •Regional outlets say Iran is signalling to Gulf neighbours that they will not be hit if they stay out of the conflict and do not host attacks.