The United Kingdom has confirmed it will allow the United States to use British military bases for targeted defensive strikes on Iranian missile sites.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the decision on March 1. He described the move as “specific and limited” and focused only on stopping Iran from launching missiles across the region.
In a video statement shared on X, Starmer said the US asked to use British bases for a defensive purpose. He said the UK agreed to the request to prevent missiles from killing civilians, threatening British lives, and hitting countries not involved in the conflict.
Bases expected to be involved include RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus and Diego Garcia, a joint UK-US military facility in the Indian Ocean. Reports also mention RAF Fairford, although officials have not confirmed full details for security reasons.
The move follows joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran that began on February 28. Those operations reportedly led to the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior officials. Iran has since launched waves of missile and drone attacks across the region.
Iranian strikes have targeted US military positions and areas in Israel and Gulf states. Explosions were reported near major infrastructure in Dubai and around US naval facilities in Bahrain. At least three American soldiers have been confirmed dead, with more injured.
UK forces have already taken defensive action. RAF jets operating from Akrotiri have shot down incoming drones aimed at allied positions. Britain, along with France and Germany, has condemned Iran’s missile attacks as reckless and dangerous for regional stability.
The decision has sparked debate in Parliament. Some critics warn it could pull the UK deeper into the conflict. Supporters argue it is necessary to protect British personnel and allies from further missile threats.
The US says its military campaign, known as Operation Epic Fury, aims to weaken Iran’s missile systems and nuclear capabilities. President Donald Trump has vowed that strikes will continue until US objectives are achieved.
As the conflict enters its fourth day, concerns are growing about wider escalation. Shipping routes near the Strait of Hormuz face disruption, and global leaders are calling for urgent de-escalation. For now, military operations on both sides show no sign of slowing down.
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