British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday that British bases in Cyprus are not being used by US bombers, clarifying that a recent strike on RAF Akrotiri was not linked to any decision taken by London. Speaking in the House of Commons, he outlined the United Kingdom’s position on the conflict involving Iran and reiterated that the UK is not participating in offensive operations.
Position on US-Israeli strikes
Sir Keir defended his government’s decision not to take part in the initial US-Israeli strikes against Iran. He said the United Kingdom is seeking a diplomatic solution that would prevent Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and bring an end to what he described as destabilising activities in the region.
He added that he later accepted a US request for the limited use of British bases for strictly defensive purposes. According to the prime minister, Iran’s response, which included launching hundreds of missiles and thousands of drones at Gulf countries not involved in the attacks, was unacceptable and posed a threat to British interests and allies.
Clarification on Akrotiri strike
Sir Keir stated unequivocally that the United Kingdom is not participating in offensive operations by the United States and Israel. He confirmed that British bases in Cyprus are not being used by US bombers and said the drone strike on RAF Akrotiri was not connected to any recent decision by the UK government.
Referring to intelligence assessments, he said the drones had been launched before his televised address granting defensive access to UK bases.
Security concerns and British nationals
The prime minister highlighted that approximately 300,000 British nationals are currently in the wider region. He said Iranian strikes had hit airports and hotels where British citizens were staying. Among the targets was a military base in Bahrain where 300 British personnel are stationed. A drone also struck RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus.
Sir Keir noted that more than 20 potentially lethal attacks on UK soil have been foiled over the past year, describing Iranian hostility towards Britain as longstanding.
UK military involvement
He said Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets are engaged in coordinated defensive operations across the Middle East and have intercepted Iranian missiles heading towards a coalition base in Iraq where British troops are deployed.
Referring to US President Donald Trump, who disagreed with London’s initial decision not to join the first round of strikes, Sir Keir said that it is his duty to judge matters based on Britain’s national interest.