UK Approves US Use of Military Bases for Strikes on Iranian Missile Sites

Britain has approved the United States’ use of its military bases to carry out strikes on Iranian missile sites targeting vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a notable shift in its position on the escalating conflict.

The British government confirmed that ministers authorised the decision after reviewing developments in the region, particularly Iran’s actions along the strategic shipping route.

In a statement, Downing Street said the agreement allows US forces to use UK bases as part of collective self-defence efforts, including operations aimed at weakening missile sites and capabilities used in attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

The move follows rising tensions after Iran reportedly launched strikes on US allies in the Middle East, prompting a reassessment of earlier reluctance by Prime Minister Keir Starmer to approve such cooperation.

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, criticised the decision, warning that it could have consequences. He accused the UK of exposing its citizens to risk by supporting military action against Iran and insisted that Tehran would exercise its right to self-defence.

Starmer had initially resisted US requests to use British bases, stressing the need to ensure any involvement complied with international law and did not draw the UK into a broader conflict.

However, the government later granted access to key facilities, including RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia, a joint UK-US military base in the Indian Ocean.

US President Donald Trump had earlier criticised Britain’s hesitation, expressing disappointment and suggesting the UK had fallen short of expectations as a close ally.

Despite approving the request, the UK government reiterated its call for restraint, urging an immediate de-escalation and a swift resolution to the conflict.

Public opinion in Britain remains divided, with polls indicating a majority of citizens oppose US-Israeli military actions, highlighting growing concerns about deeper involvement in the war.