Concerns are rising that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could extend to British territory, with Iran warning it may target UK military installations. Iran’s ambassador to London, Seyed Ali Mousavi, indicated that UK bases associated with US operations could be within reach if hostilities escalate further.
RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire and RAF Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean have been key launch points for American strikes on Iran since the conflict intensified last month. In retaliation, Iran fired two missiles toward Diego Garcia, intercepting one and losing the other mid-air—marking their first confirmed use of long-range ballistic weapons in this war.
Reports suggest Iran could view RAF Fairford as a potential target should it decide to strike the UK directly. Ambassador Mousavi told Times Radio: “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.”
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He acknowledged Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s initial opposition to UK involvement in what he described as “crimes” by the US and Israel against Iran. However, Mousavi warned that Britain allowing the US to use RAF Fairford for military operations could alter Tehran’s strategic calculations.
These statements have intensified worries about the UK’s vulnerability to missile attacks, with experts highlighting that national air defenses may be inadequate. Despite a £1 billion investment aimed at strengthening these defenses, delays have hampered progress, leaving the UK dependent on NATO allies for protection.
The conflict’s economic fallout is also deepening. Iran’s blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz has driven up global energy prices, provoking sharp criticism from former US President Donald Trump. In a social media post, Trump singled out the UK for refusing to actively participate in military efforts against Iran and urged allies to take decisive action.
“All of those countries that can’t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you,” Trump wrote. “Number 1, buy from the US, we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.”
Trump’s comments underscored his belief that allies must defend their own interests: “You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself, the USA won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!"
Amid this, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth questioned the Royal Navy’s role, while UK Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized Britain’s commitment as a key American ally during a visit to Qatar.
Tensions within the western alliance have also intensified with Trump criticizing France for denying military supply flights to Israel over its airspace. French President Emmanuel Macron’s office reaffirmed France’s stance against military escalation, highlighting divisions among NATO members.
The diplomatic strains reflect contrasting approaches within the UK and US leadership. Starmer’s previous critique of US strikes as lacking clear strategy drew a sharp retort from Trump, who disparagingly remarked that the Labour leader was “not Winston Churchill.”