Iran told of ‘consequences’ for lethal tanker drone raid
IRAN must face up to the consequences of its ‘outrageous’ drone attack on an Israeli-managed tanker that killed a Briton, Boris Johnson has said.
The prime minister spoke out as Mohsen Baharvand, Iran’s ambassador to the UK, was summoned to the Foreign Office over the attack on the MV Mercer Street off the coast of Oman last week.
Mr Johnson said: ‘A UK national died. It is absolutely vital Iran and every other country respects the freedoms of navigation around the world. The UK will continue to insist on that.’
Calling the attack ‘unacceptable and outrageous’, he added: ‘Iran should face up to the consequences.’ British maritime security firm Ambrey said a hole
was blasted through the bridge of MV Mercer Street, killing one of its staff and a Romanian. The ship is managed by Israeli billionaire Eyal Ofer’s Londonbased Zodiac Maritime group.
It was the first fatal attack after years of assaults, including three on Israeli-linked ships since February.
Middle East minister James Cleverly told Mr Baharvand that Iran must
‘immediately cease actions that risk international peace and security’.
Foreign secretary Dominic Raab also promised to work with allies on a ‘concerted response’. His US counterpart, Antony Blinken, said Iran’s use of lethal drone strikes was increasing.
Tehran summoned the UK’s chargé d’affaires and warned it would react ‘promptly and strongly’ to any reprisals.