The UK government has refused to approve a request from the United States to use British air bases for potential strikes on Iran, a decision that could increase tensions over the planned transfer of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.
Kieir Starmer’s government declined to authorise American long-range bombing operations from RAF Fairford near Swindon, citing that participation in pre-emptive attacks on Iran could breach international law. Washington has stepped up its military presence in the Middle East and is drawing up contingency plans for possible strikes against Iran.
The row is now tied to talks over the future of the joint UK-US base on Diego Garcia in the Chagos Islands, a facility seen as crucial for any long-range military operations in the region.
TRUMP CRITICISES UK POSITION
US President Donald Trump criticised the UK stance and warned against relinquishing control of the Chagos Islands. On Truth Social, he said the United States might need access to Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford “in order to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous Regime.”
Any US strike from Diego Garcia would only need Britain to be informed under existing treaties, but using RAF bases would require explicit UK approval.
British reluctance to support a pre-emptive strike reflects longstanding caution inside government. Under international law principles incorporated into UK policy after 2001, a state can share responsibility for unlawful military action by an ally if it knowingly assists the operation.
Britain similarly declined direct participation in earlier US strikes on Iranian targets, limiting involvement to defensive measures protecting UK assets and regional allies.
CHAGOS DEAL CAUGHT IN ROW
Tensions have grown in recent months over Britain’s plan to hand the Chagos Islands to Mauritius and lease back Diego Garcia for 99 years at a reported £35 billion. Washington sees the base as vital to Indo-Pacific and Middle East operations.
Trump, who has alternated between backing and criticising the arrangement, again urged Britain not to proceed, writing, “DO NOT GIVE AWAY DIEGO GARCIA!” He previously called the agreement a “big mistake.”
Inputs from agencies
