UK Authorizes Use of Bases for Potential Strikes on Iranian Missile Sites
The United Kingdom has agreed to allow the United States to utilize British military bases for potential strikes targeting Iranian missile sites, a move signaling escalating tensions in the Middle East. The decision comes as Iran continues to launch attacks across the region in response to a joint U.S. And Israeli offensive that resulted in the death of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In a video statement released on social media, Keir Starmer affirmed that the UK did not participate in offensive actions in Iran and “will not” participate in such actions. He reiterated his desire for a “peaceful” resolution to the conflict. The development underscores growing regional instability and the potential for wider conflict.
Starmer urged British citizens to follow safety guidelines regarding travel in the region. He explained that the U.S. Requested permission to use UK military bases to strike Iranian missile sites, a request London granted, but only for that specific purpose. He added that the decision, which he described as “consistent with international law,” is aimed at protecting the lives of British citizens and allies in the region.
“We all remember the mistakes made in Iraq and we have learned from them,” Starmer stated. However, he continued, “Iran is attacking British interests and seriously endangering its citizens” and allies throughout the region. “The only way to finish the threat is to destroy the missiles at the source – in storage depots or launchers used to fire these missiles.”
According to the Prime Minister, “at least 200,000” British citizens, including residents and tourists, are currently in countries affected by the escalating regional crisis. “I ask all our nationals in the region to please register their presence and follow the travel advice from the Foreign Office,” he requested.
“Our armed forces, deployed throughout the region, are also being endangered by Iran’s actions. [Saturday] Iran struck a military base in Bahrain, narrowly missing British personnel,” Starmer added.
The British Foreign Office had previously advised citizens in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to “remain sheltered in place” on Sunday. On Sunday evening, the Foreign Office also advised against “all travel to Lebanon, except for essential purposes.”
