The United Kingdom has blocked US forces from using British military bases for potential strikes against Iran, officials said. The move has escalated tensions with Washington and drawn criticism from President Donald Trump. RAF bases in England and the Indian Ocean are directly affected.
Under existing agreements, American aircraft could operate from RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire or the joint US–UK base on Diego Garcia only with British approval. London has not granted such permission for hypothetical action against Iran. Officials cite concerns about breaching international law without clear legal justification.
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Trump sharply criticized the UK decision and also attacked Britain’s 2025 agreement to transfer sovereignty of the British Indian Ocean Territory, including Diego Garcia and the Chagos Islands, to Mauritius. He linked his criticism of the Chagos deal to military access restrictions.
On his Truth Social platform, Trump warned that the US might need Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford to prevent attacks from a “highly unstable and dangerous regime,” referring to Iran. He suggested Britain’s support would be legally justified under international law, claiming Iran could target the UK and allied nations.
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The dispute follows Trump’s discussions with Prime Minister Keir Starmer over his ultimatum to Iran regarding its nuclear program. London has remained firm in restricting US operations from its bases, emphasizing legal and diplomatic responsibilities. Tensions between the two allies are expected to continue.