British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reportedly refused a request from Donald Trump to allow United States forces to use British-controlled air bases for possible military strikes on Iran, citing legal concerns.
According to multiple UK media reports, including The Times, London denied access to RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia facilities long used as key staging posts for US military operations overseas.
British officials reportedly fear that permitting their use in a preemptive strike could violate international law by implicating the UK in any unlawful military action.
Government sources quoted in the reports said international law does not distinguish between a country carrying out an attack and one providing support with prior knowledge of the operation.
The issue highlights growing transatlantic tensions as Washington weighs options amid rising confrontation with Tehran.
Analysts note that Diego Garcia serves as a critical hub for US heavy bombers, while RAF Fairford has historically supported long-range strike missions.
The development comes after a phone call between Starmer and Trump in which both leaders discussed peace and security issues in the Middle East and Europe.
Shortly afterward, Trump criticised a proposed agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while maintaining a long-term lease for military use of Diego Garcia.
The dispute unfolds as the United States increases military deployments to the region and continues diplomatic efforts to resolve its standoff with Iran over its nuclear programme.
Military analysts say access to bases closer to Iran would significantly enhance operational flexibility in any extended campaign.
Neither the White House nor the UK government has issued an official statement confirming the reports.
