Following the prime minister’s statement to the Commons on Monday 2 March, opposition parties had the opportunity to make their view on events clear, highlighting the different attitudes and priorities of parties across the chamber.
Conservatives
Conservative speakers were consistently critical of the government’s response, arguing stronger and clearer support for allies was needed. Kemi Badenoch said the Prime Minister should have acted sooner and asked: “why it took Iranian missiles hitting allies in the Gulf before he finally made a decision.” She stressed solidarity with allies and the need for clarity: “we also stand behind America taking this necessary action.” Sir Edward Leigh echoed calls for prioritising national interest over international law, while Sir Andrew Mitchell challenged the Government’s legal caution, arguing it hampers action against threats: “those who seek to use international law to constrain us… leave tyrants and murderers in place.”
Liberal Democrats
Lib Dem MPs stressed concern about legality, unclear objectives, and risk of mission creep. Sir Ed Davey called the initial US action “unilateral and unlawful” and asked whether the Prime Minister had “demanded … Trump’s plan for what comes next”. He warned that defensive operations must not “become offensive”. Tim Farron questioned the “exit strategy” of allied action, asking: “what is their plan and what are their objectives?”
Scottish National Party (SNP)
SNP MP Stephen Gethins drew on historical lessons, saying “the ghosts of Iraq hang heavy” and emphasised the importance of the international rules-based order and learning from instability after Iraq. The SNP’s focus was on long-term consequences, diplomacy, and de-escalation rather than military escalation.
Reform UK
Reform UK’s Richard Tice directly challenged the Government’s restraint, arguing that the US and Israel “have done the west a huge, huge favour in degrading the military capability of this terrible regime.” He accused the Prime Minister of humiliating the UK on the world stage by refusing initial support. Danny Kruger said the government’s position was “moral weakness… unable to take a sovereign decision without consulting international lawyers”.
Green Party of England and Wales
Green MP Dr Ellie Chowns strongly criticised both US/Israeli strikes and UK response, calling the attacks “deeply irresponsible and illegal”, and asked the Prime Minister to “publish the legal advice … and commit to a vote in this House on any UK involvement.” Her intervention reflected a broader Green scepticism about military escalation and emphasis on legality, opposition to war, and democratic oversight.
The range of responses to the government’s statement highlights the challenges it faces – from those seeking assurances that the UK does not get drawn into a long-term war, whilst others accuse the government of timidity and failing to support its allies in the United States.