UK makes U-turn, grants US access to bases for strikes on Iranian targets 

The United Kingdom has authorized the United States to use British military bases to launch strikes on Iranian-linked targets connected to threats in the Strait of Hormuz.

Downing Street confirmed the decision on Friday following a ministerial meeting, stressing that the UK will not directly participate in the strikes but will allow expanded US operations from British soil.

In a statement, a spokesperson said the bases will support US “defensive operations to degrade the missile sites and capabilities being used to attack ships.”

The government also struck a cautious tone, adding that “ministers underlined the need for urgent de-escalation and a swift resolution to the war,” signaling concern about further escalation even as it backs its ally.

Until now, Britain had limited US use of its bases to operations targeting missile threats directly linked to British interests.

This comes as Donald Trump criticized NATO allies, calling them “cowards” for refusing to deploy warships to help secure the key shipping route.

UK makes U-turn, grants US access to bases for strikes on Iranian targets