The Telegraph reports a major diplomatic clash between the UK and the US. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has refused President Donald Trump’s request to use RAF bases for potential strikes against Iran. This decision not only impacts Anglo-American military cooperation but also complicates negotiations over the Chagos Islands deal.
Rising US Military Build-Up
- The US has deployed long-range bombers and refueling aircraft to the Middle East.
- Officials told Trump the US military would be “ready for war by Saturday,” marking the largest build-up since the 2003 Iraq invasion.
- Iran has responded with naval drills in the Persian Gulf, signaling readiness for retaliation.
RAF Bases and Legal Concerns
- Trump requested permission to use RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire for bombing runs.
- UK government lawyers warned such participation could breach international law.
- Under UN rules, Britain could be held responsible if it knowingly supports an unlawful strike.
- Attorney General Lord Hermer previously advised that UK involvement beyond defending assets would be unlawful.
The Chagos Islands Dispute
- Trump linked his request to the UK’s Chagos deal, under which sovereignty passes to Mauritius while leasing Diego Garcia back for £35bn over 99 years.
- Trump has alternated between calling the deal “great stupidity” and “the best possible outcome.”
- On Truth Social, he urged Britain not to “give away Diego Garcia” and to “remain strong in the face of wokeism.”
UK’s Strategic Position
- The UK has deployed Typhoon and F-35 jets to the region to protect allies and assets.
- Ministers remain firm: Britain will not support pre-emptive strikes on Iran.
- This stance reflects continuity from last summer, when the UK refused to join Trump’s attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Conclusion
The UK’s refusal to allow US forces access to RAF bases for potential strikes against Iran
highlights a clear policy stance: Britain will prioritize international law and sovereign decision-making over external pressure.
While Anglo-American security cooperation remains strong, London’s rejection of pre-emptive military action underscores its commitment to legality and diplomacy.
This dispute not only intensifies the Iran crisis but also casts a shadow over the Chagos Islands agreement, showing how interconnected military and diplomatic negotiations have become in shaping global strategy.
Reference
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/2/18/trump-says-uks-starmer-big-mistake-diego-garcia-lease