Iran's ambassador to the UK, Seyed Ali Mousavi, warned that UK-linked military sites could be targeted if tensions escalate. This threat follows Iran's first confirmed use of long-range ballistic weapons in the conflict last month, when it fired two missiles towards Diego Garcia, a British territory; one was intercepted and the other failed mid-flight. According to Mousavi, London's response to the escalating conflict has been very late, though he commended Prime Minister Keir Starmer's initial position not to become embroiled in what he called the criminal act of the US and Israel.
Initially, Downing Street resisted allowing US operations from UK bases, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer declining a request from Donald Trump, multiple reports indicate. However, Downing Street reversed its position after Iran moved to choke off the Strait of Hormuz, according to those reports. Defence Secretary John Healey told MPs the US now has permission to use UK bases for defensive strikes against specific Iranian targets threatening shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a shift from the government's previous policy of only allowing such use to hit missile sites targeting British interests in the region.
This is a very important matter we are considering.
A UK Ministry of Defense spokesperson said Iran's attacks are a threat to British interests and allies. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has ruled out putting British troops on the ground in Iran, insisting the UK will not be drawn into the conflict. He stated that the UK will continue to take defensive action and work to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
American forces have used RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia to launch strikes on Iran since hostilities erupted last month. The US sparked fears over the weekend that it is preparing to launch ground operations in Iran, according to research from two sources.
This is a serious matter under consideration.
Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has driven up global energy prices, multiple reports indicate.
The UK has pledged £1 billion to bolster air defences, but delays have stalled progress, leaving Britain reliant on NATO allies, according to multiple reports. Experts warn the UK lacks sufficient defences against missile strikes.
I commend Keir Starmer's initial position not to become embroiled in the 'criminal act' of the US and Israel.
It is unknown what specific conditions would trigger Iran to target UK-linked military sites. Similarly, the effectiveness of the UK's current missile defences against potential Iranian strikes remains uncertain.
Further uncertainties include the status of the UK's air defence pledge delays and detailed plans for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, the extent of US preparations for ground operations in Iran is unclear.
In summary, the conflict has intensified with direct threats from Iran and economic impacts from the Strait of Hormuz blockade, while the UK navigates a delicate balance between supporting allies and avoiding deeper involvement.