UK says US is entitled to defend itself following Iraq attack

UK says US is entitled to defend itself following Iraq attack

Defence Minister Ben Wallace urges all parties to show restraint.

US soldiers walk as they prepare equipment and load aircraft bound for the Central Command area of operations. (AP pic)
LONDON:
Britain urged all parties to show restraint on Saturday after the United States killed Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani in an air strike, but said its closest ally was entitled to defend itself against an imminent threat.

Defence minister Ben Wallace said in a statement that he had spoken to his US counterpart Mark Esper, adding: “We urge all parties to engage to de-escalate the situation.

“Under international law the United States is entitled to defend itself against those posing an imminent threat to their citizens,” he added.

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