UK Rules Out Offensive Action on Iran, Allows Limited US Defensive Use of British Bases: PM Starmer

New Delhi | 1 March 2026 Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said that the United Kingdom is not involved in offensive strikes on Iran, but will continue to take defensive steps to protect British lives and allies amid rising tensions in the Middle East. In a video message shared on social media, Starmer made it clear that Britain did not participate in recent military strikes on Iran and has no plans to join any offensive action. However, he confirmed that the UK has agreed to allow the United States to use British military bases for a “specific and limited defensive purpose” aimed at stopping Iranian missile attacks across the region. Starmer said the situation has become increasingly dangerous over the past two days, allegedly accusing Iran of expanding the conflict by launching attacks on multiple countries that were not involved in earlier strikes. According to him, Iranian missiles have hit airports and hotels where British citizens were present, putting civilians at serious risk. Highlighting the scale of concern, the Prime Minister noted that around 200,000 British citizens are currently in the region, including residents, tourists, and people in transit. He urged them to register with UK authorities and strictly follow official travel advice, assuring them that the government is doing everything possible to support their safety. The Prime Minister also warned that British armed forces deployed across the Middle East are under threat. He revealed that an Iranian missile strike recently hit a military base in Bahrain, narrowly missing British personnel. British fighter jets, he added, are already conducting defensive air operations and have successfully intercepted incoming Iranian attacks. Starmer stressed that the UK’s approach is guided by international law and the principle of collective self-defence. He said the decision to permit US access to British bases was taken to prevent further missile launches, protect innocent civilians, and safeguard British interests. A summary of the legal advice behind the decision will be made public, he added. Reaffirming Britain’s long-term position, Starmer said the government believes the crisis can only be resolved through diplomacy. He underlined that a negotiated settlement, in which Iran abandons any ambition to develop nuclear weapons, remains the best path forward for regional and global security. The Prime Minister also addressed recent reports confirming the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in the February 28 US-Israel strikes, a claim acknowledged by Donald Trump and Iranian state media. Starmer warned that leadership changes in Tehran would not automatically reduce the threat, saying Iran’s actions have become more reckless and dangerous for civilians. Drawing a clear line, Starmer said the UK has learned from past conflicts and will not repeat mistakes made during the Iraq war. “We were not involved in the initial strikes on Iran, and we will not join offensive action now,” he said, adding that Britain’s focus remains on defence, stability, and protecting lives. UK Stays Out of Iran Strikes, Allows Limited US Defensive Use of Bases: PM Starmer Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said that the United Kingdom is not taking part in any offensive military action against Iran, even as tensions rise in the Middle East. In a video message, he clearly stated, “Yesterday, I spoke to you about the situation in the Gulf and explained that the United Kingdom was not involved in the strikes on Iran. That remains the case.” Starmer said Iran has widened the conflict by attacking countries that were not involved in earlier strikes. He warned that Iranian missiles have hit airports and hotels where British citizens were staying, calling the situation “clearly a dangerous” one. He highlighted that nearly 200,000 British nationals are currently in the region and urged them to follow official travel advice, saying, “I know this is a deeply worrying time and we will continue to do all we can to support you.” The Prime Minister also revealed that British armed forces in the region are facing growing risks. He said Iran recently struck a military base in Bahrain, narrowly missing British personnel. While stressing that the UK will not join offensive strikes, he confirmed that Britain has allowed the United States to use British bases for a “specific and limited defensive purpose.” British fighter jets, he added, are already involved in defensive operations and have successfully intercepted Iranian missiles. Reiterating the UK’s stand, Starmer said the decision was taken to protect British lives and support allies under collective self-defence, in line with international law. He underlined that military force is not the long-term solution, saying, “the best way forward for the region and for the world is a negotiated settlement.” Despite recent reports confirming the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Starmer warned that the threat from Iran remains serious and must be handled carefully to avoid further escalation.