The United States has begun using British military bases for certain operations against Iran as fighting continues in the escalating Middle East conflict, the UK government has confirmed.
Britain’s Ministry of Defence said the facilities are being used for “specific and limited defensive operations” aimed at preventing Iran from launching missiles into the region and threatening allied countries.
According to officials, the United States has deployed aircraft and military equipment to bases including RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire and the joint UK-US base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.
The decision followed approval from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer after Washington requested permission to use the facilities as tensions with Tehran intensified.
British authorities stressed that the move does not mean the United Kingdom is directly joining offensive operations against Iran, but rather allowing the use of its territory for defensive actions designed to stop missile attacks and protect regional allies.
The development comes as the conflict involving Israel, Iran and the United States continues to expand, raising fears of a broader regional war across the Middle East.
Military analysts say the use of British bases could significantly strengthen US operational capabilities, as the facilities provide strategic access points for long-range bombers and support aircraft operating in the region.
The decision has also sparked political debate within the United Kingdom, with critics warning that the move could draw the country deeper into the escalating conflict.
