Washington, 21 Feb: The British government has not granted permission for the United States to use UK-controlled air bases for any potential military strikes against Iran, according to multiple British media reports citing government sources.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reported to have declined access to RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia, installations that have historically supported US long-range bomber operations.
While the UK Ministry of Defence declined to comment on operational matters, a government spokesperson stressed that “there is a political process ongoing between the US and Iran, which the UK supports,” reiterating that Britain’s priority remains preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons while maintaining regional stability.
Legal Concerns at the Core
British officials are understood to be weighing international law considerations in assessing any US request. Under established legal principles, a state that knowingly supports an internationally wrongful act may share responsibility. UK policy states that any approval for foreign use of British bases must consider “the legal basis and policy rationale” of the proposed action.
The reported hesitation reflects concerns that preemptive military action without clear legal justification could expose the UK to diplomatic and legal repercussions.
Trump Signals Military Option
US President Donald Trump, posting on Truth Social, indicated that bases such as Diego Garcia and Fairford could become strategically important if negotiations with Iran fail.
“Should Iran decide not to make a deal,” Trump wrote, “it may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia, and the Airfield located in Fairford.”
He added that the outcome of ongoing diplomatic efforts could become clear “over the next, probably, 10 days.”
The White House has signaled that the president’s public statements reflect current US policy.
Chagos Islands Factor
The dispute unfolds against the backdrop of Britain’s planned agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, while leasing back the joint UK-US military facility on Diego Garcia for 99 years.
In 2019, the International Court of Justice advised that Britain should return the islands “as rapidly as possible,” intensifying pressure on London to resolve the long-running dispute.
Trump, who had previously expressed support for the arrangement, recently criticized the deal, calling it “a big mistake.”
Domestic Political Reaction
The issue has also drawn reaction within British politics. Ed Davey urged the government to resist external pressure and called for parliamentary oversight if US forces seek to operate from UK territory.
Strategic Calculations
Although previous US bomber missions targeting Iranian facilities were flown directly from the American mainland, analysts suggest that any prolonged campaign would benefit from forward operating locations. Diego Garcia, in particular, has long served as a critical hub for US heavy bomber deployments in the Indo-Pacific.
However, granting access could potentially place UK-linked facilities within the scope of retaliatory threats, adding another layer of strategic risk for London.
Broader Context
The United States has increased military deployments in the region while pursuing negotiations aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear program. British officials continue to emphasize diplomacy over escalation.
The current standoff underscores the delicate balance facing London: maintaining its close defense relationship with Washington while navigating legal constraints and geopolitical sensitivities in a volatile region.
