Summary
The UK has agreed to let the US use RAF Fairford, a military base in England, for possible "defensive" strikes against Iran. This decision comes after recent attacks by the US and Israel on Iran, which resulted in retaliatory actions by Iran. The UK states it will play no direct role in these strikes, but the base will support US operations.
Key Facts
- RAF Fairford is a base on the border of Gloucestershire and Wiltshire in England.
- The US plans to use RAF Fairford for potential strikes on Iranian missile sites.
- The UK's Sir Keir Starmer announced the agreement to the US request to use UK bases.
- RAF Fairford has a long runway, making it suitable for deploying heavy bombers.
- The US and Israel began attacks on Iranian sites recently, provoking Iranian retaliation.
- The UK has stated it will not directly participate in strikes in the Middle East.
- RAF Fairford has historically been used in several military operations, including in World War II and the Gulf War.
- A British RAF base in Cyprus was hit by a drone strike around the same time, and investigations are ongoing.
