British premier calls for Middle East cease-fire after Iranian attack on Israel

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, and Jordan's King Abdullah II following Iran launched more than 200 missiles at Israel.

A spokesperson for Keir Starmer said: "The prime minister spoke to Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this afternoon, and they discussed the escalating situation across the Middle East."

"The prime minister condemned Iran’s attack on Israel today in the strongest terms, which began during the leaders’ conversation, and expressed the UK’s steadfast commitment to Israeli security and the protection of civilians.

"During the call, the prime minister also underlined the importance of a cease-fire in Lebanon to allow space for a political solution in line with UNSC Resolution 1701.

"The prime minister also raised the situation in Gaza and the importance of a cease-fire and action to bring home the hostages," the spokesperson said.

About the conversation with King Abdullah, the spokesperson added: "The leaders began by underscoring the urgent need for a cease-fire in both Lebanon and Gaza. They both called for de-escalation to prevent the extreme humanitarian situation from worsening.

Earlier, Israel reported that Iran had launched about 200 missiles in retaliation for the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

Israel had targeted Nasrallah and other Hezbollah commanders in an airstrike on the southern suburbs of Beirut on Sept. 27.

Haniyeh was killed in a strike during a visit to Tehran in late July.