New UK PM Burnham approves US use of British bases for strikes on Iran
Andy Burnham has authorised the United States to use British military bases for what London describes as defensive operations against Iran, continuing a policy set by his predecessor.
Newly sworn-in British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has approved the use of British military bases by the United States for attacks against Iran, according to a Bloomberg report cited by multiple outlets. The decision, which continues a policy established by his predecessor Keir Starmer, qualifies the strikes as “defensive” rather than active war, Bloomberg noted. No official statement has been issued by Burnham’s office.
The US, under President Donald Trump, has been pressing the UK to allow continued use of bases including RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia, according to a report in the Daily Telegraph cited by Kikar HaShabbat. Trump warned on Tuesday that the Iranian nuclear site at Pickaxe Mountain could become a target if a diplomatic resolution is not reached, the Jerusalem Post reported. Iran’s top military commander, Khatem al-Anbia, threatened that US and allied assets across the region would be targeted if Washington struck Iran’s nuclear facilities, according to state television.
The decision comes as the US has resumed military operations against Iran. According to Iranian media reports, the US renewed attacks on July 7, 2026, after alleging an attack on vessels in the southern Strait of Hormuz, and subsequently reimposed a naval blockade. Arab Gulf states are pressuring the US to ensure that Israel does not resume attacks on Iran, fearing retaliation against their energy infrastructure, the Wall Street Journal reported. Regional mediators have warned that Israeli involvement would make it harder to persuade the IRGC to return to negotiations.
The approval has drawn criticism from some Labour MPs, the Green Party and Liberal Democrats, who argue that allowing US use of British bases makes the UK complicit in war crimes, according to Bloomberg. Burnham spoke with Trump by phone on Monday, with his office stating he emphasised Britain’s commitment to securing shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The US and Israel are also discussing stationing additional US refuelling aircraft at Ben-Gurion airport, a move that would require cancelling 30 civilian flights per day from August 1, N12 reported.
| Iranian & allied press | −0.80 | critical |
|---|---|---|
| Israeli press | +0.60 | aligned |
| Atlantic / Anglosphere press | +0.70 | aligned |
The new British PM bows to US demands, authorizing use of bases to strike Iran. This decision shows London's subservience to Washington and is a new provocation against Iranian sovereignty. Iran has the right to defend itself and will respond forcefully to any aggression.
The British PM's decision is an important step in the alliance against Iran. Israel welcomes Western involvement, which strengthens deterrence and may limit the Iranian threat. However, it remains cautious about possible consequences for regional stability.
The British authorization is a decisive move to contain Iran. The UK shows leadership in defending Western interests, while Tehran becomes increasingly isolated. Signs of Iranian economic collapse make this the right time to act.
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