skip to main content

MU Statement on Conflict in Iran

Alongside the TUC, the MU condemns the dangerous escalation of military actions, precipitated by the US-Israeli attacks on Iran that flout international law and undermine prospects for peace.

Published: 18 March 2026 | 1:56 PM Updated: 18 March 2026 | 3:48 PM
A world map of the middle east with the Iranian flag pinned on Iran.
We call for an immediate halt to hostilities and the urgent resumption of talks grounded in international law. Image credit: Shutterstock.

The Musicians’ Union, as a member of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and with representatives on the General Council, fully supports the TUC statement on the conflict in Iran.

The statement condemns the “dangerous escalation of military actions, precipitated by the attacks launched by the US and Israel over the weekend that flout international law, undermine diplomacy and the prospects for peace”.

It goes on to say that the “use of force outside clear United Nations authorisation represents a breach of the fundamental principles of peaceful settlement of disputes enshrined in the UN Charter. This undermines the prospects for de-escalation and fuels cycles of violence that put civilian lives at risk and threaten regional stability.”

We call for an immediate halt to hostilities in the region

The MU is deeply concerned at the risk of further escalation, and stands with trade unions across the region who are calling for an immediate halt to hostilities and the urgent resumption of talks grounded in international law.

We condemn military actions taken by the US, Israel and Iran that violate the sovereignty of states, kill civilians - including reports of over 160 Iranian children killed in US and Israeli airstrikes on a school which has been condemned by UNESCO1- and draw neighbouring countries into conflict.

Read the full statement on the TUC website.

Join the MU's work for equality in music

Be sure your voice is heard - and help make the music industry a better place for every musician. At the MU we stand for equal opportunities and inclusion for musicians, and aim for the industry to be more diverse and representative.

Be a changemaker 

Learn what we do to make the industry inclusive and diverse, and how you can get involved in making a change.

Get involved

Join the MU's work for equality in music

Continue reading

A world map of the middle east with the Iranian flag pinned on Iran.

MU Statement on Conflict in Iran

Alongside the TUC, the MU condemns the dangerous escalation of military actions, precipitated by the US-Israeli attacks on Iran that flout international law and undermine prospects for peace.

Published: 18 March 2026

Read more about MU Statement on Conflict in Iran
A placard at a march against the far right.

Together Alliance March: Join the MU in the Fight Against the Far Right

Join us on Saturday 28 March for what’s expected to be the UK’s largest anti‑racist march. Find out how to join the MU delegation and explore our new Anti‑Far Right Hub to learn how far‑right movements operate and how to challenge them.

Published: 17 March 2026

Read more about Together Alliance March: Join the MU in the Fight Against the Far Right
Close up of wooden violin bow.

New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force

Following a decision at the CITES Conference of the Parties, new rules governing the international trade of pernambuco bows came into force on 5 March 2026. Guidance from the UK CITES authority explains what the changes mean for musicians.

Published: 06 March 2026

Read more about New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force
The UK and EU flags, waved together in front of Big Ben in London.

MU Backs Petition Urging UK to Rejoin Creative Europe Programme

The EU/UK Culture Forum has launched a petition calling on the UK Government to rejoin Creative Europe from 2027. The programme supports funding and cultural collaboration across Europe, and the MU is encouraging members to sign and show their support.

Published: 26 February 2026

Read more about MU Backs Petition Urging UK to Rejoin Creative Europe Programme