Uk Allows Us Military Use Of Bases Against Iranian Missiles

In a significant escalation of tensions following the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed on March 2, 2026, that the UK has accepted a U.S. request to use British military bases for 'defensive' strikes against Iranian missile sites. Starmer emphasized that this decision was made to prevent Iran from launching missiles across the region, stating, "The United States has requested permission to use British bases for that specific and limited defensive purpose." He reiterated that the UK would not participate in offensive actions, particularly in light of the recent strikes that killed Khamenei, and stressed the need for a negotiated settlement to de-escalate tensions, saying, "Iran is striking British interests nonetheless, and putting British people at huge risk."