LONDON — Dr. Ellie Chowns, the Green Party’s spokesperson for foreign affairs and MP for North Herefordshire, has issued a scathing critique of the ongoing military operations in Iran. Labeling the actions by the US and Israel as “illegal” and “reckless,” the Green Party is calling on the UK Government to immediately press for a peaceful, negotiated solution.
A Rising Human Cost
As the conflict intensifies, the humanitarian toll is reaching critical levels. According to Green Party data, over 1,200 people have been killed since the strikes began, with numerous injuries and at least 13 verified attacks on healthcare infrastructure.
“The human cost of this illegal attack is becoming clearer every day,” stated Dr. Chowns. “The UK Government must stand unequivocally against this reckless war and use every available lever to press for peace.”
Solidarity with Iranian Citizens, Not the Regime
Dr. Chowns was careful to distinguish between the Iranian people and the government in Tehran. While condemning the “intolerable” human rights abuses of the Iranian regime, she argued that foreign military intervention is not the answer.
“The Green Party stands in complete solidarity with the citizens of Iran. However, these illegal US-Israeli strikes will not ensure the safety of civilians, nor will they further the pursuit of nuclear de-escalation,” she added.
Regional Escalation: “Patterns of Gaza” in Lebanon
The Green Party spokesperson also expressed alarm over the expansion of the conflict into Lebanon. Following massive airstrikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs—affecting over 500,000 residents—Dr. Chowns warned of a repeat of previous humanitarian catastrophes.
“This displays an utter disregard for civilian lives. We saw these patterns in Gaza; it cannot be allowed to happen again in Lebanon. No nation should be able to break international law with impunity,” she emphasized.
The Role of UK Military Bases
A major point of contention for the Greens is the Prime Minister’s decision to allow the US to use UK military bases for “defensive action” without a parliamentary vote. Dr. Chowns warned that the UK risks being “dragged further into another illegal war in the Middle East.”
Key demands from the Green Party:
- Accountability: Holding those responsible for illegal attacks on civilians and healthcare facilities to account.
- Transparency: Clarifying the nature of US operations launched from UK bases.
- Legislative Reform: Dr. Chowns recently introduced a Bill requiring a parliamentary vote and a clear legal basis before any UK military deployment.
“The Prime Minister has offered no clear assurances. We are forsaking the lessons of past involvements,” Chowns concluded.
