UK foreign secretary visits Middle East as situation 'incredibly dangerous'

LONDON

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy Wednesday embarked on a visit to Bahrain and Jordan to drive efforts towards security and stability in the region.

This trip aims to foster dialogue with key regional partners and address the urgent need for a cease-fire in Gaza and Lebanon, according to an official statement.

In his meetings with leaders in Bahrain and Jordan, Lammy will emphasize the UK’s concern over the potential for further escalation and miscalculation, urging for an immediate cease-fire to mitigate the ongoing violence.

He will also call on "Iran and its proxies to cease their attacks," which the government said are a source of "chaos and destruction" for the region and its people.

"The situation is incredibly dangerous, and further escalation or miscalculation in the region is in no one’s interests," Lammy said.

"I am pleased to be back in the region to meet with our key partners in Bahrain and Jordan and see first-hand our combined efforts towards building long-term security and stability in the Middle East."

He added: "We must not waver at this critical period to achieve ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon, to get more desperately needed aid into Gaza, and secure the release of all hostages."

During his visit, Lammy will engage with UK Armed Forces personnel stationed in Bahrain, who are playing a vital role in maintaining Gulf security, particularly for commercial shipping in the Red Sea.

He will also focus on strengthening economic ties, leading discussions on regional security and prosperity, and enhancing business relations.

The trade relationship between the UK and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is significant, valued at over £57 billion.

In Jordan, Lammy will meet senior leaders, including Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, to reaffirm the UK’s support for the country’s humanitarian efforts in Gaza.

Israel continues its air and ground attacks into Lebanon, while also conducting strikes in Gaza.

Last week, Iran launched missiles into Israel in retaliation for assassination of Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.