UK Refuses US Request to Use British Bases for Iran Strikes
The United Kingdom has not agreed to allow the United States to launch air strikes against Iran from British military bases, including Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, Sky News understands. This decision comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and follows reports that the UK's reluctance has influenced diplomatic relations, particularly regarding the Chagos Islands deal.
Background on Military Agreements and Legal Concerns
Under long-standing agreements between London and Washington, the Pentagon requires advance approval from the British government to launch operations from sites such as Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford, as well as other UK air bases hosting US warplanes and personnel. According to The Times, this permission has not been granted for any potential strike against Iran due to concerns that such a mission would breach international law.
The Times first reported the lack of permission, noting that as a result of the UK's reticence, former President Donald Trump withdrew his support for a deal struck by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to hand the Chagos Islands, which include Diego Garcia, over to Mauritius. US military plans to strike Iran involve using these bases, with RAF Fairford hosting a US fleet of heavy bombers.
Trump's Statements and Diplomatic Tensions
President Trump stated on Thursday that the world would find out "over the next, probably, 10 days" whether the US would reach a deal with Iran to end its nuclear ambitions or take military action. He has been surging forces to the Middle East, including two giant aircraft carriers and supporting warships and jets, to increase options for a significant military operation against Iran if talks fail.
In a post on social media, Mr. Trump explicitly mentioned the utility of Diego Garcia and Fairford for US military operations against Iran, suggesting it would be within international law for the UK to grant such deployments, given potential threats to the UK and other friendly countries. He wrote, "Should Iran decide not to make a Deal, it may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia, and the Airfield located in Fairford, in order to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous Regime."
Mr. Trump spoke by phone with the British prime minister on Tuesday evening, covering topics including the Iran crisis but not the Chagos Islands. However, the following day, he launched a new attack on Mr. Starmer over the Chagos Islands deal, despite the US State Department's support for the UK's decision to give the territory to Mauritius and lease back Diego Garcia.
UK's Defensive Measures and Chagos Islands Deal
The UK is not thought to be preparing to support the US in any military offensive against Iran. However, the Royal Air Force has deployed six F-35 warplanes to RAF Akrotiri on Cyprus and sent four Typhoon jets to Qatar as part of efforts to bolster its own defences in the event of any Iranian counterattack in response to American strikes.
On the Chagos Islands deal, the UK government has repeatedly defended its decision to hand over the territory to Mauritius, arguing it would avoid a costly legal battle while securing access to Diego Garcia for 100 years. This move has sparked controversy, with Trump previously urging the UK not to give away Diego Garcia.
The situation highlights the complex interplay between military strategy, international law, and diplomatic relations, as the UK balances its alliances with the US and its commitments to global legal standards.
