UK on Alert: Understanding the Implications of U.S. Military Strikes on Iran

Britain was forewarned about the U.S. military strikes on Iran but did not concede usage of their shared Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean. This information was confirmed by senior minister Jonathan Reynolds, who also noted that there was no request for Britain's direct involvement.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced the obliteration of Iran's main nuclear sites in an overnight operation, significantly escalating Middle Eastern tensions. While Britain did not engage in the strikes, it remains vigilant, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer in talks with allies to potentially defend them if necessary.

Reynolds acknowledged that Britain's military assets, such as RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus and the Diego Garcia base, were not requested for this operation. In readiness for potential evacuations, the UK government is in active discussions to charter aircraft and plans to send evacuation flights soon.

(With inputs from agencies.)