The British government has shifted its position and is now permitting the United States to utilize UK bases for air operations aimed at removing Iranian threats disrupting the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement released Friday by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office, the UK clarified the scope of its cooperation: “[T]he agreement for the US to use UK bases in the collective self-defence [sic] of the region includes US defensive operations to degrade the missile sites and capabilities being used to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz.”

Until now, London had limited such permissions to situations directly involving British personnel or interests, such as earlier in the conflict when Iranian missiles targeted UK forces stationed in Cyprus.

The updated stance comes amid growing concern over Iran’s widening attacks. “Ministers condemned Iran’s expansion of its targets to include international shipping,” the statement continued. “They agreed that Iran’s reckless strikes, including on Red Ensign vessels and those of our close allies and Gulf partners, risked pushing the region further into crisis and worsening the economic impact being felt in the UK and around the world.”

Despite the expanded authorization, British officials stressed that their broader approach remains cautious. “[T]he UK remains committed to defending our people, our interests and our allies, acting in accordance with international law and not getting drawn into the wider conflict,” it concluded. “Ministers underlined the need for urgent de-escalation and a swift resolution to the war.”

{Matzav.com}