UK Permits US Use of British Military Bases for Defensive Strikes Against Iranian Missile Sites

UK Grants Access for 'Specific and Limited' Defensive Action

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Sunday, March 1, 2026, that the United Kingdom would permit the United States to utilize British military bases for 'specific and limited defensive strikes' targeting Iranian missile sites. The decision comes amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East, following a series of Iranian retaliatory missile and drone attacks across the region.

In a recorded statement, Starmer emphasized that the move is intended to prevent Iran from firing missiles across the region, which he stated was endangering innocent civilians and approximately 200,000 British citizens residing in Middle Eastern countries. The Prime Minister clarified that the UK's involvement is strictly for defensive purposes and will not extend to offensive actions.

Context of Escalation and UK's Stance

The announcement follows recent US-Israeli strikes on Iran, in which the UK had not initially participated. Starmer reiterated that the UK's initial decision to not join these offensive strikes was deliberate, stemming from a belief that a negotiated settlement, leading to Iran abandoning nuclear weapon aspirations and ceasing destabilizing activities, represents the best path forward for regional stability.

However, Iran's subsequent actions, including sustained attacks across the region that have impacted countries not involved in the initial strikes, prompted the UK's policy shift. Iranian strikes reportedly hit a military base in Bahrain, narrowly missing British personnel, and a suspected drone struck the UK's RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus, causing minor damage.

Bases Involved and Legal Justification

The United States specifically requested permission to use British bases for the purpose of destroying Iranian missiles 'at source' – in their storage depots or launchers. While not explicitly named in the initial announcement, reports indicate that Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire are the two British bases granted for US use.

The UK government has published a summary of its legal position, asserting that its actions are in accordance with international law and based on the principle of collective self-defense of long-standing friends and allies who have requested support. Starmer stressed that the use of British bases is 'strictly limited to agreed defensive purposes' and that the UK is not joining US offensive operations.

International Reactions and Domestic Concerns

The decision has drawn varied reactions. US President Donald Trump expressed disappointment, stating that the UK took 'far too long' to grant access to its bases. Domestically, the move has faced scrutiny, with some members of Parliament and the Green party questioning the legality and wisdom of deeper involvement. Public opinion polls conducted on March 2, 2026, indicated that a significant portion of the British public opposes the use of UK bases for US military action against Iran.