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U.S. to Utilize British Bases for Limited Strikes on Iran’s Missile Capabilities Amid Escalating Tensions
In a significant development reflecting heightened tensions in the Middle East, the United States has received clearance from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to use British bases for limited, defensive strikes targeting Iran’s missile capabilities. The decision was confirmed by Starmer in a recorded statement to the nation, with U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey affirming Britain’s commitment to supporting its American allies.
“The only way to stop the threat is to destroy the missiles at source, in their storage depots or the launchers which are used to fire the missiles,” Starmer stated, outlining the rationale behind the move. He confirmed that the U.S. request was for a “specific and limited defensive purpose,” which the U.K. has decided to accept.
This authorization comes amidst a period of escalating conflict in the Middle East, following recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliatory missile and drone attacks from Tehran. These events have fueled fears of a broader regional conflict.
Defense Secretary Healey disclosed on Sunday that two Iranian missiles were fired in the direction of Cyprus, where Britain maintains critical sovereign base areas. In response to the growing threats, British planes are actively engaged in coordinated regional defensive operations across the Middle East.
Adding to the defensive efforts, the Royal Air Force (RAF) confirmed that Typhoon jets operating from Qatar, as part of the joint U.K.-Qatar Typhoon Squadron, successfully intercepted an Iranian drone heading toward Qatar. Approximately 300 British personnel are also stationed at a naval facility in Bahrain, an area that has recently experienced nearby Iranian missile and drone strikes.
Healey emphasized the defensive nature of Britain’s involvement. “We’re taking down the drones that are menacing either our bases, our people or our allies,” he told “Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips” on Sky.
“We’ve stepped up alongside the Americans. We’ve stepped up our defensive forces in the Middle East.
We’re flying those sorties.”
The Defense Secretary also made it clear that the U.K. had “no part” in the recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, reiterating that all British actions are purely defensive and aimed at protecting U.K. interests and allies. When pressed on the possibility of the U.K. joining offensive actions, Healey declined to speculate.
Further underscoring the collaborative efforts, Downing Street confirmed on February 28 that Prime Minister Starmer and President Donald Trump had discussed the “situation in the Middle East” during a phone call.