Thanks for your perspective @notimagain, and yes, you’re absolutely right to highlight the operational complexities of flying into Iran right now. It’s not as simple as booking a flight or sending in a Voyager, Iranian airspace is largely closed to commercial carriers, sanctions limit spares, and there’s very little margin for error.
But that’s exactly why the UK Government needs a plan, not silence.
Other countries are finding ways, Ireland, France, Germany, China, India, through land convoys, diplomatic channels, and onward flights from neighbouring countries like Turkey or Armenia. They're not waiting for Iran to become “flight-friendly” they’re acting with urgency and realism.
We’re not stamping our feet. We’re asking for the same duty of care that’s been extended to British nationals elsewhere:
- Secure passage to a third country
- Coordination with local authorities
- Transparent communication with families here in the UK
- A commitment to not abandon citizens just because it's diplomatically messy
You’re right, this is realpolitik. But it’s also real lives. And Britain has the diplomatic weight, intelligence networks, and global partnerships to do better than “let’s hope the airspace clears.”
No one’s demanding miracles, just equal protection and a strategy that matches what others are already doing.
Let’s not leave people behind, surely the UK Government don’t want another fall of Kabul situation, with footage of Brits left behind.