US-Israeli strikes in the Middle East have sparked retaliation from Iran and Iranian-backed militias as fears of a global conflict reach boiling point.
Growing global instability is increasing fears of UK conscription (Image: Getty)
Escalating global instability has renewed fears the UK could introduce conscription, as British air bases are offered to the US amid ongoing American missile strikes on Iran. The UK Government announced a change to the Army reservists’ rules earlier this year, increasing the age limit from 55 to 65 for call-up to conflicts, in a clear sign of preparation for heightening threat. Historic precedent continues to dictate the first group of British citizens likely to be called to fight in the event of World War 3 breaking out, however, with modern analysis suggesting that single, childless individuals aged between 18 and 25 would be drafted first.
This group would be prioritised for their physical capability, receptiveness to training and fewer family obligations. While the Government has said it has no plans to introduce conscription to the armed forces, military experts have warned that current troop numbers are insufficient.
US-Israeli strikes on Iran have escalated conflict in the Middle East in recent days (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Iran and Iranian-backed militias have fired missiles at Israel and against Arab states over the last few days, while the US and Israel continue to pound targets in the Islamic Republic region.
A joint American-Israeli attack over the weekend killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, along with many top Iranian officials, prompting Iran to launch a counter-offensive.
Iran has reportedly hit the American embassy in Kuwait, while Israel and the US have bombed Iranian missile sites and targeted its navy, claiming to have destroyed multiple warships.
A Royal Air Force airfield in Cyprus was also hit by a drone after the UK signalled willingness to work with the US to help stop Iran’s attacks, and a group of Gulf Arab countries has said it reserved the right to respond to the Iranian strikes.
Around 300,000 British nationals are believed to be in countries targeted by Iran, with 102,000 registered with the Foreign Office for updates as officials consider next steps, including a potential mass evacuation.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said British forces would not be directly involved in the strikes, and the bases would only be used for the “specific and limited defensive purpose” of targeting missile storage depots and launchers being used to attack Iran’s neighbours.
While the outbreak of a third world war is a worst-case scenario, developments in the Middle East, alongside continuing threats of decimation from Vladimir Putin‘s Russia, have made it seem increasingly possible.
Earlier this year, the Domesday Clock – which has been used to symbolise how close the world is to annihilation since World War 2 – was moved to just 85 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been.
