Britain says its armed forces are fully prepared to defend the country after Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned London over allowing U.S. bombers to operate from British military bases.
The warning came after the UK reaffirmed an existing defence arrangement that allows the United States to use British bases for military operations in the region.
Responding on Thursday, a UK government spokesperson said the country’s military remained on constant alert to deal with any threat.
“Our Armed Forces are ready to keep the United Kingdom safe from any kind of attack, whether on our soil or from abroad,” the spokesperson said.
The government added that Britain maintains a layered air and missile defence system, combining the capabilities of the Royal Navy, the British Army and the Royal Air Force. It said those forces operate alongside NATO allies to strengthen the country’s security.
Iran’s warning followed confirmation by the government of Prime Minister Andy Burnham that Britain had recommitted to an existing agreement permitting the United States to launch operations from UK bases as part of the collective defence of the region.
According to the British government, the arrangement covers U.S. defensive missions aimed at degrading missile sites and military capabilities linked to attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite the rising tensions, London insisted its position has not changed.
The government said Britain remains committed to protecting its people, national interests and allies in line with international law while working to avoid being drawn deeper into the expanding regional conflict.
