The United Kingdom has approved the use of its military bases by the United States to launch strikes on Iranian-linked targets near the critical Strait of Hormuz, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer had previously restricted US access to British bases for defensive purposes only. However, Downing Street confirmed that ministers have now expanded the agreement to include operations aimed at protecting shipping routes in the region under “collective self-defence.”
US President Donald Trump criticized the UK’s response, saying it came “very late,” while Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Britain of putting lives at risk and warned of retaliation.
Reports from US officials indicate that Iran recently launched ballistic missiles toward the joint US-UK base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, though the attack caused no damage.
Despite the expanded cooperation, the UK insists it will not directly participate in offensive strikes, maintaining that its approach remains focused on defence and de-escalation.
The decision has sparked political backlash at home. Critics, including Kemi Badenoch, described it as a major policy reversal, while opposition figures such as Calum Miller and Zack Polanski have called for parliamentary approval.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a key global chokepoint, previously handling around 20% of the world’s oil supply. However, traffic has significantly dropped due to rising tensions and threats of Iranian attacks.
UK officials stressed the need for urgent de-escalation, even as military coordination with US forces continues to secure the vital shipping corridor.
