LONDON: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Monday for de-escalation in the Middle East after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) reported attacks for the first time since a truce was declared nearly a month ago.

The UAE, a close US ally and key Arab partner of Israel, said it came under a barrage of missiles and drones from Iran on Monday.

In a statement, Starmer stated, "The UK condemns the drone and missile strikes targeting the United Arab Emirates".

He further emphasized that "this escalation must cease".

The British Prime Minister called for Iran to engage in meaningful negotiations to ensure the ceasefire in the Middle East endures and a long-term diplomatic solution is achieved.

The recent attacks on the UAE mark an intensification of hostilities in a region where tensions have been high.

These developments underscore the urgency of diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilizing the situation and fostering lasting peace.