UK 'ready to defend itself' after Iran says bases are 'legitimate targets'
The UK government has reaffirmed its readiness to defend itself after Iran labeled British military bases used by the US as legitimate targets. This follows ongoing US strikes against Iranian targets and tensions regarding the UK's role in the conflict.
Why it matters
Escalating rhetoric between Iran and the UK increases the risk of direct military confrontation and regional instability in the Middle East.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Sean Seddon EPA US military aircraft have been based at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, pictured here in April 2026 The British government has said it "stands ready 24/7 to defend itself" after Iran said UK bases used by the US were considered "legitimate targets".
The UK has allowed the US to launch "defensive" operations from British bases hosting American personnel and aircraft, while refusing to cooperate in offensive operations against Iran.
Iran's foreign ministry said the UK was an "accomplice" in the US war, while the powerful Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) military wing said any country which supports the US militarily "will be responsible for the consequences and repercussions".
It comes as the US carried out a 13th consecutive night of strikes against targets in Iran.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in