UK Government Blocks Approval For Possible US Strike On Iran Using British Bases

The British government has reportedly declined to authorise the use of key UK military bases for any potential United States strike on Iran, as tensions rise over Tehran’s nuclear programme.

The move places London in a cautious position amid indications that U.S. President Donald Trump is weighing military options that could involve facilities on British soil.

Officials in Washington are drafting detailed operational plans that would rely on the US-UK joint military facility at Diego Garcia in the Chagos Archipelago and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, according to Express.

RAF Fairford serves as a key hub for America’s heavy bomber fleet in Europe.

Under long-standing bilateral defence arrangements between London and Washington, US forces may only launch operations from British territory with prior approval from the UK government.

However, The Times reported that no such authorisation has been granted should Mr Trump proceed with military action against Iran.

Government sources suggest the hesitation is rooted in legal concerns.

British officials are said to be wary of breaching international law, which does not distinguish between a state that directly carries out a military strike and one that knowingly provides support for an action later deemed unlawful.

The issue was reportedly discussed during a phone call between Mr Trump and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Tuesday night, where the US president’s ultimatum to Iran over its nuclear ambitions was a central topic.

A day later, Mr Trump publicly criticised the UK government’s approach to the Chagos Islands agreement and directly referenced Iran in a statement posted on his Truth Social platform.

He suggested that American use of Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford might become necessary if Tehran refuses to negotiate.

“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 wrote.

He added that such action would be aimed at preventing “an attack that would potentially be made on the United Kingdom, as well as other friendly countries,” implying that UK involvement could be justified under the doctrine of self-defence if Iran posed a direct threat.

Meanwhile, the UK government has reaffirmed its commitment to proceeding with the Chagos Islands deal despite apparent shifts in Washington’s stance.

Justice Minister Alex Davies-Jones confirmed that the relevant legislation will return to Parliament when scheduling permits.

The proposed Bill, which had been set for debate in the House of Lords, was withdrawn last month following a Conservative-backed amendment seeking a pause due to what it described as “changing geopolitical circumstances.”

Reports on Thursday suggested further delays could be possible.

The developments underscore growing diplomatic strain as Britain attempts to balance its strategic alliance with the United States against legal and political sensitivities surrounding any direct involvement in a potential conflict with Iran.(SaharaReporters)