The British government has publicly called for a peaceful transition of power in Iran, as the regime in Tehran continues its violent suppression of widespread public demonstrations. The protests, which represent the most significant challenge to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's rule in years, have reportedly led to a severe human toll.
UK Ministers Condemn Violence and Repression
Speaking on Sunday 11 January 2026, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander outlined the UK's position, stating the immediate priority was to "stem the violence" occurring within the country. In an interview with Sky News's Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips, Alexander characterised Iran as a hostile state that poses a security threat beyond the Middle East and runs a repressive regime against its own people.
"It’s a concerning situation there," Alexander said, "and we would like to see anything that happens in future involving a peaceful transition where people can enjoy fundamental freedoms and we see proper democratic values back in the heart of Iran."
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper praised the bravery of the protesters, particularly young women, stating it should not require courage to make one's voice heard. She emphasised that the rights to free speech and peaceful assembly should never come with the threat of violence or reprisals.
Growing Toll and International Stance
According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, the confirmed death toll has risen to 116 people, with a staggering 2,638 individuals detained since the unrest began on 28 December. The protests initially focused on the ailing economy but have since transformed into a broader uprising against the ruling establishment.
Despite internet and telephone blackouts imposed by the authorities, footage from Tehran and other cities has circulated on social media, showing scenes of defiance, including protesters dancing around bonfires in the streets.
The international response has been pointed. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared that "The United States supports the brave people of Iran." Meanwhile, Iran has issued warnings that it will target US troops and Israel if former President Donald Trump follows through on threats of military action.
Political Support for Regime Change
In the UK, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch expressed a firm stance, suggesting it would be right for the US to help oust the Islamic Republic's leadership. She indicated she would support potential RAF involvement as part of a broad international coalition, drawing a parallel to recent RAF strikes in Syria.
"I don’t have an issue with removing a regime that is trying to harm us," Badenoch stated on BBC One's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg. She warned that Iran would "very happily wipe out the UK if it felt it could get away with it" and highlighted the regime's global network, including "terrorist outposts with Hezbollah all across the world."
Badenoch stressed that any action must be coordinated to create a stable Iran and avoid escalation, concluding, "The worst possible thing would be for this to escalate to a point where the situation gets worse, not better."
