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UK Approves US Airstrikes from British Bases in Iran

3/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A United States Air Force B-52 bomber landed at RAF Fairford on March 9 after United States and Israeli airstrikes against Iran.
The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed U.S. forces are using British bases for specific defensive operations.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer initially resisted using British bases for initial strikes.
He later approved their use for defensive strikes on Iranian missile sites, citing close UK–U.S. collaboration.

History

Historical Context

The UK's support for U.S. military operations in Iraq began in 2003, with over 45,000 British troops deployed alongside American forces, utilizing bases like RAF Fairford. This collaboration established a framework for ongoing U.S.-UK military cooperation, which remains significant today, particularly in airstrikes against Iran, highlighting the strategic partnership's impact on Middle Eastern stability.

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Story summary

A United States Air Force B-52 bomber landed at RAF Fairford on March 9 after United States and Israeli airstrikes against Iran.
The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed U.S. forces are using British bases for specific defensive operations.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer initially resisted using British bases for initial strikes.
He later approved their use for defensive strikes on Iranian missile sites, citing close UK–U.S. collaboration.

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