UK approves US use of British bases for Iran attacks

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham confirmed on 23 July that the United Kingdom will continue the policy allowing United States forces to operate from British military facilities, including Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford, for defensive strikes against Iran. The decision, endorsed after a COBRA emergency meeting on 17 July, limits use of the bases to missions defending against Iranian missile threats and protecting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, explicitly excluding attacks on Iranian civilian or energy infrastructure.

Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the arrangement, accusing Britain of “co‑operation in the crime of aggression” and warning that those who support “military aggression against Iran will be held responsible.” U.S. President Donald Trump described his phone call with Burnham as “very good,” emphasizing the strength of the U.S.–UK partnership. The United States has reportedly carried out 13 consecutive nights of strikes on Iranian targets, raising concerns of further escalation in the region.