UK 'ready to defend itself' after Iran says bases are 'legitimate targets'

Key Points:

• The UK government has affirmed its readiness to defend itself 24/7 following Iran's statement that UK bases used by the US are "legitimate targets" amid ongoing US strikes on Iran.
• The UK permits the US to conduct "defensive" operations from British bases like RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia but denies involvement in offensive actions against Iran, maintaining a stance of not being drawn into the wider conflict.
• Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) warned that countries supporting US military actions against Iran, including the UK, would bear responsibility for consequences, amid US-led strikes continuing for 12 consecutive nights.
• Despite Iranian threats and missile attacks, including a failed missile strike on Diego Garcia, the UK Ministry of Defence has not confirmed recent US use of its bases for operations against Iran, and the UK emphasizes acting in accordance with international law.
• Analysts question the accuracy and reliability of Iran's missile capabilities, with the US claiming its strikes have significantly degraded Iran's missile arsenal, and no specific evidence suggests Iran is targeting the UK directly.