Jocelyn Waller, the British government’s spokesperson for the Middle East and North Africa, describes the situation in Lebanon as a “true tragedy,” marked by the displacement of more than one million people, civilian casualties, and extensive destruction of infrastructure. She affirms that London, having long supported the Lebanese Army through training programs and the construction of watchtowers along the eastern and northern borders, will maintain this approach, stressing that “the Lebanese Army is the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon.”

Regarding the possibility of expanding this support to include the southern border with Israel, Waller underscores that de‑escalation remains the priority. She confirms that the UK is intensifying diplomatic efforts with its partners, revealing that Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has been in contact with Lebanese and Israeli officials, alongside ongoing coordination with European and American counterparts.

Waller also notes that London has increased its emergency humanitarian assistance to £7.5 million amid the deepening crisis, reiterating Britain’s support for the Lebanese president’s call for direct negotiations between Beirut and Tel Aviv, because “the solution is diplomacy, not war.”

Freedom of Navigation

Amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s push to form an international coalition to safeguard the Strait of Hormuz, Waller says that maintaining freedom of navigation in this strategic waterway is a global priority. She stresses that Britain is working closely with both European and American partners to craft a collective plan that ensures maritime security, while refraining from detailing any prospective military coalition.

Iranian Attacks on Gulf States

Asked whether the UK is contributing to efforts to repel missile and drone attacks targeting Gulf states, Waller says Iran is conducting “reckless attacks” in the region. She confirms that the United Kingdom is participating in coordinated defensive operations with its partners to protect lives and shared interests.

She explains that British aircraft operate continuously to intercept drones and missiles, working in tandem with ground‑based defense systems. She praises Gulf states’ effectiveness in countering these threats and affirms that British support will remain steadfast.

The spokesperson expresses hope that the crisis will end swiftly, warning that its continuation will only heighten its severity and its repercussions for the region and the world.

“What people want, regardless of nationality, is to live in peace and to send their children to school without fear,” she says.

Waller concludes by stressing that Britain sees diplomacy as the only viable path to a swift resolution capable of securing genuine stability in the region, including Lebanon.