New British Prime Minister Greenlights U.S. Access to Key Airbases for Iran Missions

Newly installed U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has approved continued American use of British military facilities for operations related to Iran, including the strategic Diego Garcia base and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.

The decision covers missions described by British authorities as defensive in nature and focused on countering Iranian missile threats near the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Central Command has conducted strikes on Iranian command centers, launch sites, and air defenses for multiple consecutive nights after the breakdown of a prior ceasefire.

President Trump had pressed for the access, stating that if Iran refused a deal it “may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia, and the [RAF] Airfield location in Fairford, in order to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous regime.”

Burnham’s approval followed high-level briefings and differed from the more limited approach of his predecessor. Diego Garcia provides a critical forward staging location in the Indian Ocean, while Fairford has supported long-range bomber operations.

The arrangement could enable sustained pressure on Iranian military infrastructure. Officials indicated Burnham intends to preserve the broader U.S.-U.K. relationship while addressing points of difference directly.

The move comes as both sides continue military activity and diplomatic channels remain open but unresolved.