Tensions in the Middle East are spilling over into concerns about UK security, as Iran signals it may target British military bases involved in US operations. Iran’s ambassador to London, Seyed Ali Mousavi, warned that bases such as RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire—which has been used by American forces to launch strikes against Iran—could be at risk if the conflict intensifies.
Last month, Iran launched two missiles toward RAF Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, marking its first confirmed use of long-range ballistic weapons in this conflict. While one missile was intercepted and the other failed mid-air, the attack underscored Iran’s expanding capability and willingness to target distant military assets.
Reports suggest that RAF Fairford may now be considered a viable target by Iran if it decides to escalate attacks on UK soil. Ambassador Mousavi emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “This is a serious matter under consideration. It relates to our self-defence. Our military will decide how to respond based on Britain’s actions. All options are being kept open, but we will act carefully.”
He also commended Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s initial refusal to involve the UK in what he described as the “criminal act” by the US and Israel against Iran. However, Mousavi noted that allowing US bombers to operate from RAF Fairford could change Iran’s stance.
These developments have amplified fears over the UK’s vulnerability to missile attacks. Despite a promised £1 billion upgrade to the nation’s air defences, delays have hindered progress, leaving Britain dependent on NATO allies for protection.
The conflict’s economic repercussions are also sharpening. Iran’s blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz has pushed global energy prices higher, increasing pressure on the UK and other nations reliant on jet fuel. Former US President Donald Trump criticized allies, including the UK, for their hesitance to engage directly in the conflict. On his Truth Social platform, Trump urged the UK to “buy from the US” and “build up some delayed courage” to secure the Strait of Hormuz themselves, warning that the US would no longer ensure their security.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth questioned whether the Royal Navy should increase its involvement, while UK Defence Secretary John Healey reaffirmed Britain’s commitment as a key US ally during talks in Qatar.
Meanwhile, diplomatic tensions have flared across the Atlantic, with France refusing to permit military supply flights over its airspace to Israel, maintaining a stance against military escalation. This divergence, alongside Starmer’s critique of US strikes as lacking a clear strategy, has exposed growing transatlantic disagreements, drawing a sharp rebuke from Trump, who dismissed the British Prime Minister as “not Winston Churchill.”
As the conflict in the Middle East unfolds, the security of RAF Fairford and the broader UK remains under scrutiny amid escalating threats and diplomatic complexities.