UK Denies US Use of Military Bases for Potential Iran Strikes Amid Chagos Islands Dispute
Published 19 February 2026
Highlights
- The UK has not granted the US permission to use its military bases, including RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia, for potential strikes on Iran.
- Donald Trump criticized the Chagos Islands deal, linking it to the UK's refusal to allow US military operations from Diego Garcia.
- Talks between the US and Iran are ongoing, with a decision expected within 10 days on whether a deal will be reached or military action will be taken.
- The Chagos Islands deal, which involves handing sovereignty to Mauritius, is at risk due to the US's shifting stance influenced by military strategy.
- UK government officials emphasize that any military action must comply with international law, impacting the use of UK bases.
The UK government has not authorized the United States to utilize its military bases, such as RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire and Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, for potential strikes on Iran, according to recent reports. This decision has sparked a diplomatic rift, influencing US President Donald Trump's stance on the Chagos Islands deal.
Diplomatic Tensions Over Military Strategy
The US has historically used these bases for operations in the Middle East, but the current refusal comes amid heightened tensions over Iran's nuclear programme. The US has been pressuring Iran to curb its nuclear ambitions, threatening military action if negotiations fail. Talks between American and Iranian negotiators in Switzerland are ongoing, with President Trump indicating a resolution within the next ten days.
The Chagos Islands Controversy
The Chagos Islands deal, which involves transferring sovereignty to Mauritius while retaining a joint UK-US military base on Diego Garcia, has become a contentious issue. Trump, who initially supported the deal, has reversed his position, criticizing UK Labour leader Keir Starmer for the agreement. Trump linked his criticism to the UK's refusal to permit US military operations from Diego Garcia, a strategic location for potential actions against Iran.
Legal and Political Implications
UK officials have reiterated that any military action must align with international law, a stance that complicates the use of UK bases for pre-emptive strikes. The Chagos Islands deal, nearing its final legislative stages, faces uncertainty as the US's position remains in flux. The UK government continues to support diplomatic efforts, emphasizing regional security and the prevention of nuclear proliferation.
What this might mean
The refusal to allow US military operations from UK bases could strain US-UK relations, particularly if negotiations with Iran falter. Should the US opt for military action, the UK may face increased pressure to reconsider its stance. The Chagos Islands deal, already delayed, risks further setbacks if the US maintains its opposition. Experts suggest that the UK's adherence to international law could serve as a diplomatic leverage point, potentially influencing future negotiations with both the US and Iran. As the situation develops, the UK's role in facilitating a peaceful resolution remains crucial.
