British premier says Israeli attacks on Lebanon ‘should stop now’

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday called for Lebanon to be urgently included in ceasefire efforts, warning that ongoing Israeli military action risks deepening a humanitarian crisis.

Speaking to lawmakers, Starmer said diplomacy remained “the right path” and welcomed ongoing talks, but stressed that the situation in Lebanon required immediate attention. The country has been hit by widespread Israeli airstrikes and a ground offensive in the south.

“The bombing should stop now,” he told parliament, adding that continued violence risked pushing Lebanon further into crisis.

Starmer said Hezbollah “must disarm” but also sharply criticized Israel’s actions, saying the strikes were “wrong” and were having “devastating humanitarian consequences.”

NATO and defense spending

Starmer also used his remarks to underline the need for increased defense spending and stronger support for NATO, which he described as “the most successful military alliance the world has ever seen.”

He said the UK was delivering its largest sustained defense investment since the Cold War and called on European allies to take greater responsibility for the continent’s security.

His comments come amid renewed criticism of NATO by US President Donald Trump, who has questioned the level of support provided by allies in the ongoing war with Iran.

Starmer said deeper defense cooperation would not only strengthen security but also support economic growth, creating “thousands of secure jobs” across the UK.