The Israeli military said a “pre-emptive, precise, combined offensive based on high-quality intelligence” had been launched against targets in Iran – called Operation Rising Lion.
Follow latest: Israel attacks Iran’s nuclear sites
According to Iranian state media, six nuclear scientists have been killed in Israel’s strikes. Meanwhile, an Israeli military spokesperson said Iran has launched more than 100 drones towards the country.
In a statement, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer urged “all parties to step back and reduce tensions urgently”.
He added: “Escalation serves no one in the region. Stability in the Middle East must be the priority and we are engaging partners to de-escalate.
“Now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy.”
Foreign Secretary David Lammy added that “this is a dangerous moment” and said “stability in the Middle East is vital for global security”.
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