He explained that the purpose of this move is “defensive” – destroying Iran's missiles and drones before they strike civilians and allies.
“The only way to stop the threat is to destroy missiles at their source: in their depots or launchers. The United States has asked permission to use British bases for this specific defense purpose. We have decided to grant this request in order to prevent Iran from launching missiles throughout the region,” the head of the British government explained.
Starmer stressed that the British military is not involved in offensive operations against Iran, but only carry out defensive ones, including intercepting missiles.
“Over the last two days, Iran has carried out sustained attacks across the region, targeting countries that have not attacked it. Airports and hotels where British citizens are staying have been hit. This is undoubtedly a dangerous situation. There are at least 200,000 British citizens in the region – permanent residents, families on holiday and those in transit. I urge all our citizens in the region to register their presence and follow the advice of the Foreign Office,” Starmer said.
The British Prime Minister emphasized that the UK's defense position complies with international law. He added that in addition to the bases, experts from Ukraine will be involved in the defense, who will help the allies shoot down Iranian drones in the Persian Gulf.
British Defense Secretary John Healey reported on March 1 that Iran launched two missiles in the direction of Cyprus, where British military bases are located.
Context
On the morning of February 28, Israel announced the military operation “Lion's Roar” in Iran. In the USA it was called “Epic Fury”. Trump has stated his intention to protect the American people by eliminating the immediate threats from the Iranian regime.
Tehran threatened a “crushing” blow in response. Later, explosions were recorded in several countries in the Middle East where there are American military bases – in Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE and Bahrain.
Iranian state television announced that a joint US-Israeli attack on Iran on February 28 Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed and his residence suffered significant damage.
On March 1, the Iranian army began a new wave of attacks on the countries of the Middle East. Explosions occurred in Israel, Dubai (UAE), Doha (Qatar), Bahrain, Jordan and Iraq.
