LONDON — Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has authorized the United States to use British RAF bases in Cyprus. Downing Street described the authorization as being for specific and limited defensive purposes amid escalating Iranian missile attacks across the Middle East.
The decision marks a significant shift in position. Starmer previously showed reluctance to permit U.S. use of UK facilities. The change comes as tensions surge following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran and retaliatory missile launches targeting regional sites. Reports emerged of an explosion near RAF Akrotiri just hours after the announcement.
Defensive Operations in Cyprus
Starmer emphasized the authorization was strictly defensive in a late night statement.
"The U.S. has requested permission to use British bases for that specific and limited defensive purpose," he said. "We have taken the decision to accept this request to prevent Iran firing missiles across the region."
Downing Street stressed several points regarding the operation:
- No U.S. offensive strikes on Iran will be launched from UK soil.
- The RAF will not participate in offensive operations.
- The focus remains on intercepting and neutralizing missile threats.
Reported Threats to Military Installations
The move follows claims by Defence Secretary John Healey that Iranian missiles were fired in the direction of Cyprus. The UK maintains military installations in the area. Reports surfaced of an explosion near RAF Akrotiri. Personnel were reportedly instructed to remain indoors. Cypriot authorities disputed some of the missile trajectory claims. Officials say the situation remains under active review.
Political Fallout in Westminster
The decision triggered immediate political reaction. Conservatives and Reform UK previously criticized Starmer for refusing U.S. access. Green Party and Liberal Democrat leaders warned of escalation risks. Some Labour MPs voiced concern about being drawn into conflict. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called the move better late than never. Others warned the decision represents a slippery slope.
Safety of British Citizens
Starmer cited the safety of British nationals as a key factor in the decision. He noted there are at least 200,000 British citizens in the region. He stated that British armed forces are being put at risk by the actions of Iran. He referenced Iranian strikes on sites in Bahrain and other regional areas that reportedly endangered allied personnel.
International Coordination Efforts
Starmer joined French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in condemning Iranian missile strikes. The leaders called the strikes indiscriminate and disproportionate. A joint statement urged Iran to cease attacks and return to diplomatic channels.
Current Status of Operations
RAF assets are currently engaged in defensive interception roles. The UK maintains it is not participating in offensive strikes. Regional tensions continue to rise. The decision places Britain more directly within the expanding regional crisis despite being framed as defensive cooperation.