British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has agreed to permit the United States to use military bases in the United Kingdom for what he described as “defensive” strikes targeting Iranian missiles and their launch sites, according to AFP. The decision comes amid rising tensions in the region and follows recent military developments involving Iran.
In a video message shared on social media, Starmer clarified Britain’s position, drawing a distinction between defensive support and direct involvement in offensive operations. He emphasized that the UK had no role in the initial strikes carried out against Iran and made clear that British forces would not participate in any offensive military action going forward.
“We were not involved in the initial strikes on Iran, and we will not join offensive action now,” he said, underlining his government’s intention to limit its role to defensive cooperation.
The move signals support for Washington’s security objectives while attempting to avoid deeper military entanglement. By allowing U.S. forces to operate from UK bases for defensive purposes, the British government appears to be balancing its longstanding alliance with the United States against concerns about further escalation in an already volatile situation.
