Britain blocking use of air bases Trump says would be needed for strikes on Iran, UK media report
CNN • • nation
Key Points:
- British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has denied US President Donald Trump's request to use UK air bases, including RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia, for any preemptive strike on Iran, citing concerns over potential violations of international law.
- The UK government fears that allowing the US to use these bases could implicate Britain in an internationally wrongful act, as international law does not distinguish between an attacking state and those knowingly supporting it.
- The Chagos Islands, home to the Diego Garcia base, remain a contentious issue between the UK and Mauritius, with ongoing disputes over sovereignty and a proposed lease deal to maintain military access while resolving legal challenges.
- Trump has publicly criticized Starmer's agreement to lease the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, despite
