British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Sunday that the UK has agreed to a US request to use its bases for defensive strikes against Iranian missiles. This decision aims to prevent Iran from firing missiles across the region.
Starmer clarified that Britain is not participating in joint US-Israel air strikes on Iran and will not join further offensive operations. He stated that Iran has retaliated with sustained attacks, impacting airports and hotels where British citizens are present.
Britain's decision to avoid direct strikes was based on a belief in negotiated settlements and Iran abandoning nuclear weapon aspirations. However, Starmer emphasized that Iran's actions are still threatening British interests and citizens.
Partners in the Gulf have urged Britain to increase defensive capabilities. British fighter jets are already engaged in coordinated defensive operations, intercepting Iranian strikes. The UK's acceptance of the US request is framed as collective self-defense and protection of British lives under international law.