In a recent interview with the Daily Telegraph, UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps called on Iran to take immediate action and urge its proxies in the Middle East to "cease and desist," warning that the world's patience is running thin.

Shapps specifically mentioned Yemen's Houthis and Lebanon's Hezbollah, both known allies of Iran and supporters of Hamas. The Houthis, who control a significant portion of Yemen, have claimed responsibility for targeting ships in response to Israel's attacks on Gaza.

Highlighting the vital role that Iran plays in de-escalating tensions in the Middle East, Shapps addressed the Iranian government, stating, "You must get the Houthi rebels and other proxies, such as Lebanese Hezbollah, to stop their actions. The world is running out of patience."

Continuing tensions between Hezbollah and Israel have resulted in exchanges of fire across the Lebanon-Israel border. Israel initiated a campaign against Hamas on October 7 in response to unprecedented attacks on southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,300 people in Israel and the kidnapping of 240 more. In Gaza, Israel's retaliatory strikes and ground offensive have caused the deaths of over 23,000 people.

Expressing support for the UK's stance, United States President Joe Biden noted on Saturday that the US had delivered a "private message" to Iran regarding the group. This underscores international concerns about the escalating conflict and the need for Iran to use its influence to rein in its proxies.

As tensions continue to rise in the Middle East, the international community is watching closely for Iran's response to the UK's plea for de-escalation. The world hopes that diplomatic efforts and appeals like those made by Shapps will bring about a cessation of hostilities and pave the way for peace in the region.