Britain has reportedly denied the US permission to carry out attacks on Iran from UK military bases, which has led to tensions with Washington. While the US President, Donald Trump, may not prioritize international law and conventions, the UK typically gives them more consideration.
Although the UK hosts thousands of US troops on its bases, it has historically been the UK’s decision to approve offensive actions from its territory by US military personnel. This authority dates back to the 1951 NATO Status of Forces Agreement and the Visiting Forces Act of 1952.
Tensions have escalated, particularly from the perspective of the US President, as Trump seems displeased with the UK for the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. The lack of permission for bombers to conduct operations from UK bases, although not crucial for an Iran mission, could strain relations between Keir Starmer and Trump. The restriction likely stems from concerns about the legality of an attack on Iran due to the absence of Iranian aggression towards the US.
The rules established in 1951 define a combat mission when US aircraft are armed and prepared to strike another country. Therefore, any bomber departing from locations like RAF Fairford or Diego Garcia and heading to Iran would be deemed part of a combat mission.
According to international law, a state supporting an attack is as culpable as the state carrying it out if it had prior knowledge of the wrongful act. In 1986, the UK sanctioned the US to launch an attack on Libya following a terrorist incident in Berlin. However, the current situation dictates the UK’s adherence to legality by allowing logistical support but not direct attacks.
The US is pressuring Iran to curtail its nuclear and ballistic weapons programs, cease funding proxy forces like Hezbollah, and improve treatment of opposition protestors. As diplomatic talks unfold, a significant US military presence is amassing in the Persian Gulf, led by the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R Ford.
Trump has issued threats of strikes on Iran if an agreement is not reached, setting a timeframe of around ten days for Iran’s response. The UK’s obstruction of any threat towards Iran could strain relations with Washington, necessitating substantial diplomatic efforts to mend ties.
