British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reportedly refused a request from US President Donald Trump to allow American forces to use UK air bases in the event of military strikes on Iran.
According to multiple British media outlets, including The Times, the UK government declined permission for the US to operate from RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia, two long-standing strategic hubs for American military operations.
Reports suggest London is concerned that granting access could violate international law, particularly if the UK is seen as supporting a preemptive strike. Government sources indicated that international legal principles do not distinguish between a state carrying out an attack and one assisting with knowledge of the action.
The UK Ministry of Defence declined to comment on operational matters but reaffirmed support for diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran. A spokesperson stressed that preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons remains a priority, while emphasizing the importance of regional stability.
The issue comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran, with Washington increasing its military presence in the region. Trump recently suggested on social media that access to Diego Garcia and Fairford might be necessary for any potential operation targeting what he described as a “dangerous regime.”
Although neither base was used in last year’s limited US strike on Iranian nuclear facilities when American B-2 bombers flew directly from the United States — analysts say any extended campaign would likely benefit from closer staging points to allow faster refueling and rearming.
The reported disagreement adds strain to US-UK relations at a sensitive moment, as both governments navigate diplomatic talks, military positioning, and broader geopolitical considerations in the Middle East.