UK drawn into the Iran war

Britain has agreed to allow the United States to use British military bases for strikes against Iran, as the war in the Middle East spreads across the region.

The Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, announced on 1 March that the government had agreed to an American request to use British bases for what it describes as defensive strikes on Iranian missile capabilities.

A change of position

Before Israel and the United States launched their attack on Iran on 28 February, Starmer had turned down a request to use British bases. The change of position follows Iranian missile and drone attacks across the region.

The initial refusal has caused a rift with President Donald Trump, who has said he is not happy with Britain.

British forces in action

British aircraft have helped to shoot down Iranian drones and missiles over allied countries in the region. After a drone struck a British military base on Cyprus, the government sent more forces to the island and ordered the destroyer HMS Dragon to the eastern Mediterranean.

Fighter jets have also been sent to Qatar to strengthen defences there.

Bringing Britons home

Around 300,000 British nationals are in the region, and the government has begun chartering flights to bring home those who want to leave. The first flight left from Oman.

Political divisions

The war has divided British politics. The Conservatives and Reform UK have criticised Starmer as indecisive and insufficiently supportive of the United States. The Liberal Democrats have warned against getting further involved, and the Greens have called for an end to British support for Israel.

The cost at home

The war is already being felt in Britain. Oil prices have jumped, energy suppliers have suspended fixed-price deals and mortgage lenders have begun raising their rates. Economists warn that inflation could rise again.

Security

Police have increased patrols in some communities, and counter-terrorism officers are monitoring the situation.

What next?

The government says Britain's role is defensive, and that it wants to see the conflict end as quickly as possible. But with Iran restricting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and the fighting spreading to Lebanon, there is little sign of a quick end to the war.