UK Prime Minister Rejects US Request to Use Airbases for Potential Iran Strikes

London. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has rejected a request from the United States to use British airbases for potential strikes against Iran.

British media outlets have reported that the proposal from US President Donald Trump was halted due to concerns that it could violate international law. According to The Times of London, Starmer decided not to allow the use of RAF Fairford in England and the Diego Garcia airbase in the British Indian Ocean Territory.

Both bases are considered crucial centers for US military operations abroad. In particular, Diego Garcia is a primary base for US heavy bombers. 

British officials suspect that allowing the US to use these bases could be contrary to international law. Government sources have argued that not only the country directly attacking but also the country assisting in the attack could be held responsible under the law.

BBC, The Guardian, and The Telegraph have also confirmed the UK's decision to block access to the bases, citing their sources. Historically, the US has sought and received permission for the use of British bases on a case-by-case basis. 

Meanwhile, Starmer and Trump had a phone conversation on Tuesday, during which they reportedly discussed peace in the Middle East and Europe. Later, Trump announced on X (formerly Twitter) that he was withdrawing support for a potential agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Analysts suggest this issue signals an increase in diplomatic tension in US-UK relations.