The United States has begun using military bases in the United Kingdom for what officials describe as defensive operations in the ongoing war with Iran.
Britain’s Ministry of Defence confirmed on Saturday that American forces are now operating from British facilities to help prevent Iran from launching missiles across the region as tensions continue to escalate.
Keir Starmer had earlier refused to involve the UK directly in the military campaign launched by the United States and Israel when the war began on February 28.
The decision reportedly frustrated Donald Trump, who criticised the British prime minister and questioned his leadership.
However, Starmer later approved a request from Washington allowing limited use of two British military facilities for what the government described as a specific and defensive purpose.
The bases involved are RAF Fairford in southwestern England and the joint UK-US military base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.
An AFP photographer confirmed that a US Air Force Rockwell B-1 Lancer bomber landed at RAF Fairford on Saturday, while a large Lockheed C-5 Galaxy was also seen on the runway.
Outside the base, anti-war protesters gathered to demonstrate against the military activity and Britain’s growing involvement in the conflict.
Trump had earlier expressed frustration with the UK’s hesitation, saying he was unhappy with the British government’s stance and even mocking Starmer by suggesting he was not comparable to wartime leader Winston Churchill.
Starmer defended his initial refusal to join the war directly, saying any military action by Britain must have a legal basis and a clear strategic plan.
He later explained that Britain’s position shifted after Iran responded to US-Israeli strikes with missile and drone attacks that threatened British interests and allies in the region.
The situation has revived memories of the Iraq War, when former British prime minister Tony Blair backed the US-led invasion, a decision that still divides lawmakers in Britain.
Meanwhile, thousands of protesters marched through central London toward the Embassy of the United States, London on Saturday, many waving Iranian flags and carrying placards reading
“Stop Trump’s Wars” and “Stop Arming Israel.”
British media have also reported that the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales (R09) could soon be deployed to the Mediterranean as the UK increases its military readiness, although no final decision has been announced.
The developments highlight growing international tensions as the conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran continues to expand across the region.
