A former nuclear protection specialist has identified four key UK locations that could become targets for Iranian retaliation, with three situated in the South West. The warning follows a recent joint US-Israel operation against Iran, which has intensified conflict and provoked counterattacks in the Gulf region.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has firmly rejected using British bases for offensive strikes on Iran, emphasizing that the UK does not endorse “regime change from the skies.” Nevertheless, Starmer confirmed that UK bases would be employed for defensive purposes to protect regional allies threatened by Iranian reprisals. This comes after RAF Akrotiri, a UK airbase in Cyprus, was targeted by an Iranian drone, alongside strikes on sites in Dubai, a popular destination for British nationals.
The threat of increased Iranian attacks on British assets is now considered “very likely.” Gene Sticco, who managed nuclear security for major energy companies and served with the US Air Force, commented on the “unpredictable” and worsening situation. In his view, Starmer’s defensive posture may be interpreted by Iran as tacit involvement in the conflict.
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While the likelihood of a direct attack on UK soil remains low due to Iran’s limited conventional military reach, Sticco highlights four strategic targets vulnerable to unconventional or cyberattacks. These include RAF Fairford, used by US forces for heavy bombing operations; the Royal Navy bases in Portsmouth and Devonport; and GCHQ in Cheltenham, the UK’s top intelligence and cyber security hub.
RAF Fairford, located on the Gloucestershire-Wiltshire border, has a history of supporting US long-range bombing missions, and is reportedly primed for potential use in the Iranian conflict. HMNB Portsmouth hosts critical naval assets including the aircraft carriers HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales. HMNB Devonport, the largest naval base in Western Europe, accommodates amphibious and survey vessels alongside frigates. GCHQ plays a key role in safeguarding national security through intelligence and cyber operations.
Sticco cautions that while conventional strikes on Britain are improbable, covert actions remain a significant concern. “Iran has maintained intelligence networks in Europe for decades,” he explained. Potential threats include cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, assaults targeting Israeli or Jewish communities, or attacks on military or government-linked sites. He predicts the UK terror threat level will rise as a consequence but emphasizes that threats are more likely asymmetric and covert.
Britons are advised to remain vigilant by staying informed, aware of their surroundings, and adhering to government guidance. Sticco reassures that UK security services, including MI5 and counter-terrorism police, are proficient at detecting and disrupting threats although acknowledging the challenges posed by escalating intelligence demands.
With up to 300,000 British citizens estimated to be in the Middle East, many face heightened danger. Sticco urges those in the region to evacuate if possible and to accept government evacuation offers, as contingency plans are reportedly underway.