The British government has asserted its readiness to protect the nation following a statement from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps identifying US military installations on UK territory as potential targets. The IRGC made the declaration on Thursday through the Tasnim news agency, claiming that American bombing operations had been conducted from RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire two days prior. The assertion came amid an ongoing campaign of US strikes against Iranian targets, with the US conducting its 12th consecutive night of operations.
Britain has maintained a policy of allowing the US to conduct defensive operations from bases hosting American aircraft since the start of hostilities, while declining to participate in offensive operations. Prime Minister Andy Burnham was informed last week that the existing arrangement with the US would be extended. The government stated that its armed forces maintain 24/7 readiness through a layered air and missile defence system involving the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force, operating in coordination with NATO partners.
The IRGC’s statement also included criticism of Britain’s historical role in the Middle East, referencing what it characterized as colonial partitioning and involvement in regional conflicts. The group warned the government against further actions that could damage its international standing.
The escalating tensions follow recent direct attacks on British military facilities. On an earlier date in March, a drone strike damaged a hangar at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, necessitating partial evacuation. Subsequently that month, Iran fired two ballistic missiles at the Diego Garcia base in the Chagos Islands, with one failing and the other intercepted by US air defences. Iran has also targeted other Gulf locations hosting American military personnel, resulting in casualties among US service members.
US President Donald Trump indicated he was considering a major military response, telling media outlets he was close to deciding on a significant operation. He suggested Iranian leadership might be open to negotiation but was not yet prepared to commence talks. The situation has been further complicated by attacks from Yemen’s Houthi militia on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, contributing to rising global oil prices exceeding $100 per barrel.
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