UK pulls diplomatic staff from Iran as US deploys B‑1 bombers in renewed strikes

The United States has deployed its B‑1 Lancer strategic bombers for the first time in the current wave of air strikes against Iran. According to sources, the aircraft took off from a British base and targeted facilities linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, part of the "Epic Fury" campaign. The attacks marked the 12th consecutive night of U.S. strikes aimed at degrading Iran’s ability to threaten civilian shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump warned that the U.S. will destroy a bridge or power plant for each ship Iran attacks in the strait.

Amid the escalating conflict, the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office announced a temporary withdrawal of all remaining diplomatic personnel from Tehran. The embassy will continue to operate remotely, and the FCDO advises British nationals – including dual‑British‑Iranian citizens – to avoid travel to Iran because of a “significant risk of arrest, questioning or detention.” The move follows a similar withdrawal in February and comes as security conditions deteriorate.

Both actions reflect heightened tensions in the region, with the U.S. expanding its conventional air campaign and the UK taking precautionary diplomatic steps in response to the growing threat environment.