Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government has declined to authorise American long-range bombing operations from RAF Fairford near Swindon, warning that participation in strikes on Iran could breach international law. This response has allegedly come after Washington intensified its military presence in the Middle East and is planning for possible strikes against Iran.
On Thursday, Trump, in his Truth Social post, said he has been trying to press UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer not to hand over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, warning that the lease agreement over the strategic Diego Garcia air base would be a mistake.
Trump also warned the UK government against giving away control of the Chagos Islands since the US needs access “to carry out strikes on Iran”.
The US, to carry out strikes from Diego Garcia, would only need Britain to be informed under existing treaties, but using RAF bases would require explicit UK approval.
The UK’s precautionary move against the strikes comes from its posture of seeking a solution with Iran through peaceful dialogue, and any UK participation in the attacks would put Starmer’s government directly at war against Iran.
Similarly, Britain has refrained from direct involvement in previous US strikes on Iranian targets, confining its role to defensive measures to protect UK assets and regional allies.
In another cryptic post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Big mistake. Do not give away Diego Garcia!"
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