By Aysu Bicer
LONDON (AA) - UK forces were involved in supporting Israel during a missile attack by Iran, according to a statement on Wednesday.
"Last night two Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets and a Voyager air-to-air refuelling tanker played their part in attempts to prevent further escalation in the Middle East, demonstrating the UK's unwavering commitment to Israel's security," it said.
"Due to the nature of this attack, they did not engage any targets, but they played an important part in wider deterrence and efforts to prevent further escalation," it added.
The attack, Iran said, was retaliation for recent strikes that killed key figures from Hezbollah, Hamas and a senior Iranian commander.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed the UK's full support for Israel’s right to self-defense.
While specific details of the UK’s involvement have not been fully disclosed, British fighter jets played a role in the response, as they had in a similar situation in April when Iran last launched missiles at Israel.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stated that the missile barrage, consisting of 180 projectiles, was a direct response to the targeted killings of the militant leaders.
Israel reported that most of the missiles were intercepted.
UK citizens in Lebanon have been urged to register their presence with government officials as preparations for evacuations continue.
A government-chartered plane is scheduled to depart from Beirut on Wednesday, but several Britons have reported difficulties in receiving confirmation for their seats on the flight despite paying for passage.