The UK “stands ready 24/7 to defend itself,” the government said, after Iran warned British bases used by the U.S. are “legitimate targets.”
The Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) said any country that supports the U.S. militarily “will be responsible for the consequences and repercussions.”
“Our Armed Forces are ready to keep the United Kingdom safe from any kind of attacks, whether it’s on our soil or from abroad. The UK stands ready 24/7 to defend itself. This includes through operating a layered approach to air and missile defense, provided by Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force assets equipped with a range of advanced capabilities, working closely with our NATO allies,” a UK government spokesperson said, according to British media.
The spokesperson added the UK would defend its people, interests, and allies without getting drawn into the wider conflict.
The UK hosts U.S. personnel and aircraft at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire and Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. It formally allows U.S. forces to carry out “defensive operations” in the Iran war, though critics question the distinction.
The cooperation prompted Iran’s foreign ministry to accuse the UK of being an “accomplice” in the war, despite Trump repeatedly criticizing Britain for not supporting the U.S. Iran has previously said it would have the “right to self-defense” should the UK join the war, and that Britain should be “very careful” about doing so.
Iran’s warning reflects a broader strategy of expanding pressure on countries supporting U.S. military operations in the region. However, while Tehran has threatened British-linked facilities, the practical ability to strike targets in the UK itself remains highly uncertain. The immediate risk is more likely focused on overseas bases, regional installations, and allied assets closer to the Middle East, where Iran has greater reach and operational capability.
