Britain’s armed forces helped defend Israel from Iran’s missile attack, the Defence Secretary confirmed.

John Healey said in a statement on Tuesday night that: “British forces have this evening played their part in attempts to prevent further escalation in the Middle East”, but refused to specify exactly how.

He continued, “I want to thank all British personnel involved in the operation for their courage and professionalism.”

The Defence Secretary added that: “UK stands fully behind Israel's right to defend its country and its people against threats.”

According to the BBC, RAF jets were involved operationally, as they were during Iran’s previous missile salvo towards Israel in April. It also reported that Healey is visiting British armed forces personnel based in Cyprus on Wednesday.

Earlier on Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned Iran’s attack on Israel and hit out at their disruptive role across the Middle East. In a televised statement, he said: “We stand with Israel and we recognise her right to self-defence in the face of this aggression. Iran must stop these attacks. Together with its proxies like Hezbollah, Iran has menaced the Middle East for far too long”.

Israel’s Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz thanked the British government and said in a post on social media: “The support and solidarity from leaders and nations around the world will never be forgotten. We know who our friends are.” He continued, “The entire free world must stand with Israel to stop the Iranian axis of evil – before it’s too late.”

According to the IDF, around 180 missiles were fired towards Israeli territory from Iran.

IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said this was a “severe and dangerous escalation.” He continued: “There will be consequences … We will respond wherever, whenever and however we choose, in accordance with the directive of the government of Israel.”

Leader of the Opposition Rishi Sunak also joined in the condemnation of the Iranian attack and said in a post on X/Twitter that the volley of missiles was a “stark reminder of the existential threat it faces. We stand unequivocally by Israel’s right to defend itself including against Hezbollah in Lebanon.”

The leader of the Liberal Democrats Sir Ed Davey said his party “totally condemn Iran’s attacks on Israel” and that his thoughts were “with all innocent civilians – in Israel and across the whole region – who are sheltering tonight.” He urged the British government to “do all it can to help bring the region back from the brink of all out war.”