LONDON, United Kingdom — Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the United Kingdom will not directly participate in strikes on Iran, while agreeing to allow the United States to utilize British military bases for attacks on Iranian missile sites.

Strategic decision outlined: The Prime Minister confirmed the authorization for US forces to use UK bases to target missile storage depots and launchers, aiming to destroy threats at their source before they can be fired across the region.

• Base authorization: Starmer authorized the use of British bases, a reversal of Britain’s previous refusal to allow the US to use UK facilities for attacks on Iran.
• Defensive posture: “We are not joining these strikes but we will continue with our defensive actions in the region,” Starmer said.
• Justification provided: Starmer stated that Iran was striking at British and allied interests, arguing that “the only way to stop the threat is to destroy the missiles at source.”

Operational impact detailed: Royal Air Force (RAF) jets are actively engaged in defensive operations within the region to protect British interests and allies from Iranian attacks.

• Active defense: Starmer said Royal Air Force jets have intercepted Iranian strikes as part of defensive operations.
• Regional threat: The decision was motivated by the rising threat from Iran’s attacks on countries across the region.

Summary of actions: The Prime Minister emphasized that authorization for base use is focused solely on destroying Iranian missile launch capabilities and preventing further attacks.