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UK approves use of bases for US strikes on Iran
Published : Wednesday, 22 July, 2026 at 12:55 PM
Observer Online Report
Newly appointed Prime Minister of UK Andy Burnham has approved use of British military air-bases by the US to launch strikes against Iran. The decision continued as the policy of his predecessor, Keir Starmer. The Japan Times reported.
Former Prime Minister Starmer led a meeting of senior ministers and officials on Friday. They discussed British policy following the resumption of US military operations earlier this month.
Decision was taken at the meeting to maintain existing policy. Under the agreement, US planes can operate from Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, England.
Previously, Burnham took the office as Prime Minister on Monday. Officials informed him about the discussion in which he agreed with the decision.
The new premier will continue the policy of approving UK bases for defensive US operations. Consequently, British bases are likely to support the current round of American military actions.
The decision was revealed after 10 days of renewed US military activity. US Central Command confirmed it targeted Iranian military command centers, launch sites, and air defenses overnight.
The policy created political challenges for Starmer before he left office. He faced pressure from the British left to block base usage. At the same time, Trump pushed the UK to expand its role in the conflict.
Burnham is expected to face criticism from the left-leaning Green Party and the Liberal Democrats. Both parties oppose using British bases. They argue the move makes the UK complicit in potential war crimes.
The decision may explain Trump's warm comments following Burnham's arrival at 10 Downing Street. Burnham spoke with Trump by phone shortly after taking office.
-SA
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
