UK Grants US Use of Bases for Iran Strikes
The United Kingdom has authorized the U.S. to use its military bases for launching strikes against Iran. The decision deepens Western involvement in the conflict, giving American forces expanded operational reach from strategic locations like Cyprus.
The agreement allows U.S. missions to fly out of RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, previously used by B-52 bombers, and the strategic base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. These locations provide crucial logistical advantages for operations in the Middle East, expanding the reach of American airpower. Hours after the UK's announcement, its RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus was struck by a suspected Iranian-made drone, causing minor damage. This base is a key hub for British operations in the region and has recently been reinforced with additional anti-drone defenses and F-35 jets. Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides has stated his country will not be part of any military operation. Prime Minister Keir Starmer justified the decision as a "specific and limited defensive purpose" to destroy missile sites and protect some 200,000 British citizens in the region. The government's official legal position cites the "collective self-defence of regional allies who have requested support." The approval came after the UK initially refused American requests to use the bases for the first wave of US-Israeli strikes on Iran, reportedly due to concerns about their legality. This hesitation drew public criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated Prime Minister Starmer "took far too long" to grant permission. The decision has not been without controversy domestically. The Liberal Democrats have warned of a "slippery slope" and, along with the Green Party, have called for Parliament to be given a vote on the matter. Conversely, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage described the Prime Minister's decision as “better late than never.”
