UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has warned Tehran not to attempt “retaliation or reprisals” against America following the assassination of Qassem Soleimani, in his first official response to the crisis unleashed by the Washington-ordered killing of a top Iranian commander, APA reports citing Sputnik.
The UK Conservative Party leader said in an emailed statement that Iranian Revolutionary Guard Al Quids Commander Qassem Soleimani, who was killed by a US drone strike in Iraq on Friday, would not be lamented by Britain.
“General Qassem Soleimani posed a threat to all our interests and was responsible for a pattern of disruptive, destabilising behaviour in the region. Given the leading role he has played in actions that have led to the deaths of thousands of innocent civilians and western personnel, we will not lament his death. It is clear, however, that all calls for retaliation or reprisals will simply lead to more violence in the region and they are in no-one’s interest.”
The Prime Minister said he had been discussing the unfolding situation with his counterparts in Europe and the US President.
“Today I have spoken with President Macron, President Trump and Chancellor Merkel, and will be speaking with other leaders in the coming days. We are in close contact with all sides to encourage de-escalation. I will be speaking to other leaders and our Iraqi friends to support peace and stability.”
Boris Johnson emphasised that steps had been taken to increase the security of British personnel and interests in the region.
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