London, January 10, 2026 — The United Kingdom is calling for a “peaceful transition” of power in Iran, as protests swell and the potential for wider conflict rises following threats from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding military intervention.
UK Navigates Iran Crisis Amid Trump’s Intervention Signals
The UK government is walking a tightrope, seeking de-escalation in Iran while acknowledging the regime’s hostility and internal repression.
- The UK seeks a peaceful resolution to the unrest in Iran, but recognizes the security threat posed by the current regime.
- Former President Trump has suggested potential military support for Iranian protesters, escalating tensions.
- At least 62 people have been killed and 2,300 detained in Iran during weeks of demonstrations.
- An internet shutdown has largely isolated protesters from the outside world.
What’s happening in Iran? Protests initially sparked by economic grievances have broadened into widespread calls for regime change, met with a violent crackdown by Iranian authorities. The situation is further complicated by external actors, including the United States.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated she wouldn’t comment on U.S. foreign policy toward Iran, but acknowledged the country’s hostile stance and repression of its citizens. “The priority, as of today, is to try and stem the violence that is happening in Iran at the moment,” she told Sky News.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch took a firmer line, stating she “would not have an issue” with the removal of the Iranian regime and suggesting U.S. and allied involvement could be justified. “Iran would very happily wipe out the UK if it felt it could get away with it. It has tried to kill people on our soil. It is an enemy, it calls us the little Satan,” Badenoch told the BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme. She added, “So, no, I don’t have an issue with removing a regime that is trying to harm us. It has its terrorist outposts with Hezbollah all across the world.”
Trump has repeatedly threatened intervention if Iranian authorities harm protesters. On Friday, he claimed the Iranian authorities were “in big trouble,” warning, “You better not start shooting, because we’ll start shooting too.” On Saturday night, he stated the U.S. was “ready to help” as the crackdown intensified, posting on Truth Social, “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!”
Keir Starmer earlier this week condemned the killing of protesters and urged Tehran to “exercise restraint.” A UK government spokesperson expressed “deep concern” over the violence against protesters exercising their right to peaceful assembly, stating the situation is being “closely monitored.”
Demonstrators continue to take to the streets despite an escalating crackdown, according to reports. At least 62 people have been killed and 2,300 detained during the weeks of protests, which began with anger over the country’s economy.
An internet shutdown imposed Thursday has largely cut off protesters from the outside world, though videos circulating show thousands demonstrating in Tehran overnight into Saturday, chanting “Death to Khamenei,” referring to the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and “Long live the shah.”
The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported more than 570 protests have occurred across all 31 of Iran’s provinces.
Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, speaker of Iran’s parliament, warned Sunday that the U.S. military and Israel would be “legitimate targets” if the U.S. were to strike Iran. Qalibaf, a hardliner, issued the threat as lawmakers shouted “Death to America!” in the Iranian parliament, marking the first time Israel has been explicitly included as a potential target.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the UK’s position on the protests in Iran? The UK calls for a peaceful transition of power and is deeply concerned by the violence against protesters.
- What has Donald Trump said about the situation? Trump has threatened military intervention if Iranian authorities harm protesters and offered U.S. assistance to those seeking “freedom.”
- How many people have been killed or detained in the protests? At least 62 people have been killed and 2,300 detained during the weeks of protests.
