UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has defended his decision not to permit the use of British military bases for the initial US-Israeli strikes on Iran, putting him at odds with President Trump. In his first statement to Parliament since the strikes, Starmer emphasized that the government "does not believe in regime change from the skies."
Key Takeaways
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer defended his decision not to initially support US-Israeli strikes on Iran but later allowed British bases for defensive actions. The move has sparked criticism from both conservative and left-wing parties.
- UK PM Sir Keir Starmer defends decision not to join initial US-Israeli strikes on Iran
- Allows use of British military bases for 'defensive' strikes after Iranian retaliation
- Criticism from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Reform UK's Richard Tice
- Left-wing parties, including Liberal Democrats and Greens, also express discontent
- Over 100,000 Britons in the Middle East urged to register with the UK government
Starmer told MPs that while he disagreed with Trump's decision to launch offensive strikes, he agreed to allow the use of British bases for defensive actions after Iran's retaliation threatened British interests and allies in the Middle East. The Iranian response included missile and drone attacks targeting countries such as Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.
The US had initially sought permission to use Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire for their strikes but was refused by Starmer. He cited historical lessons from Iraq, emphasizing the importance of a lawful basis and a viable plan for any military action.
Starmer's decision has drawn criticism from both conservative and left-wing parties. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused him of "dither and delay," urging full support for the US. Reform UK's deputy leader Richard Tice criticized Starmer for appearing weak and humiliating Britain on the international stage.
On the other hand, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey argued that failing to stand up to Trump makes the country less safe. Green foreign affairs spokeswoman Ellie Chowns condemned the US-Israeli strikes as "deeply irresponsible and illegal," calling for a parliamentary vote on any UK involvement in the conflict.
Scotland's First Minister John Swinney also criticized Starmer's decision to allow the use of military bases, stating it creates further risks. The Foreign Office has urged Britons in the Middle East to register their presence with the government, with over 100,000 having done so. No immediate evacuation is planned, but preparations are being made.
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