THE UK Government “carefully and independently” reached the conclusion that Iran was behind missile strikes on a Saudi oil plant, the Foreign Secretary has said.

Dominic Raab, making a statement to the Commons last night, also rejected claims from the shadow foreign secretary that the Prime Minister is in talks about sending troops to Saudi Arabia.

Saudi chiefs accused Iran of carrying out attacks on September 14, when 18 drones and seven cruise missiles hit an oil field and processing facility.

Raab told the Commons: “As the UK Government, we took our time to assess the facts carefully and independently. We are now confident that Iran was responsible.

“The evidence is clear and there is no plausible alternative explanation.

“This conduct amounts to an armed attack on Saudi Arabia, a violation of one of the basic principles of international law under the United Nations Charter.”

The Foreign Secretary also called for the release of UK-Iranian dual nationals who have been arbitrarily detained in Iran.

SNP foreign office spokesman Stephen Gethins asked: “Can he ensure when the Prime Minister is in meetings with Iranians or is dealing with this is he is fully briefed so he can do no more damage than he’s already done?”