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Fairford Today
By the People, for the People
UK Blocks Trump from Using British Bases for Potential Iran Strike
Concerns over international law violations lead UK to deny access to strategic military sites
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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The United Kingdom has reportedly refused to allow former President Donald Trump to use British military air bases, including RAF Fairford and the Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean, for a potential strike on Iran. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other officials are said to be wary of granting permission, fearing it could implicate the UK in military action that may not have broad international backing and could violate international law.
Why it matters
The UK's denial of access to these strategic military sites is a significant setback for any potential U.S. plans to take action against Iran. RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia have long served as critical staging grounds for U.S. military operations, and their unavailability could hamper the ability to carry out strikes. This development also highlights the growing tensions between the U.S. and its traditional allies, as the UK prioritizes adherence to international law over accommodating the former president's wishes.
The details
According to reports, the White House had been drafting contingency plans that would involve the use of RAF Fairford in England and the Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean for a potential strike on Iran. However, UK officials, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer, are said to be concerned that granting permission for the bases to be used could implicate the UK in military action that may not have broad international backing and could violate international law.
- Earlier this week, former President Trump reportedly discussed the issue directly with Prime Minister Starmer.
The players
Keir Starmer
The current Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, who is leading the effort to deny the U.S. access to British military bases for a potential strike on Iran.
Donald Trump
The former President of the United States, who has been drafting contingency plans to use British military bases for a potential strike on Iran.
What they’re saying
“Should Iran decide not to make a Deal, it may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia, and the Airfield located in Fairford”
— Donald Trump (Truth Social)
What’s next
The UK's decision is likely to have significant implications for any potential U.S. military action against Iran, as the denial of access to these strategic bases could hamper the ability to carry out such operations. The situation will likely continue to be a point of tension between the U.S. and its traditional ally, the UK.
The takeaway
The UK's refusal to allow the U.S. to use British military bases for a potential strike on Iran highlights the growing divide between the two longtime allies, as the UK prioritizes adherence to international law over accommodating the former president's wishes. This development could have far-reaching consequences for U.S. military planning and the broader geopolitical landscape.
