The United Kingdom has confirmed that United States forces are now using British military bases to conduct operations aimed at Iranian missile infrastructure, marking a significant development in the escalating confrontation across the Middle East.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer authorized the arrangement after Washington requested access to certain British facilities to carry out what London described as specific and limited defensive operations.

The measures are intended to target Iranian missile storage depots and launch systems believed to be used in attacks across the region.

British officials emphasized that the United Kingdom is not directly participating in offensive strikes against Iran.

Instead, the government has framed the decision as part of a defensive effort designed to prevent further missile launches that could endanger civilians, allied countries and British nationals across the Middle East.

The authorization follows a rapid escalation of hostilities after United States and Israeli strikes against Iranian leadership and military infrastructure triggered retaliatory missile and drone attacks by Tehran against U.S. forces and regional partners.

Several Gulf states hosting Western military installations have reported strikes on bases and infrastructure, heightening fears of a broader regional conflict.

British leaders said the decision to grant access to bases was taken in response to growing security risks across the region, where large numbers of British citizens live or travel.

Officials have warned that Iranian attacks on airports, hotels and military facilities in allied countries have significantly increased the threat to civilians and foreign personnel.

Two installations have been widely identified as likely launch points for American operations: RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire and the joint UK–U.S. base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.

Both sites have historically supported large American bomber deployments and long-range operations.

While allowing U.S. forces to use its facilities, London has continued to underline that it was not involved in the initial strikes against Iran and does not intend to join offensive military action.

British forces have instead focused on defensive measures, including intercepting drones and reinforcing air defenses to protect allied territories.

The decision reflects the delicate balance Britain faces as a close security partner of the United States while seeking to avoid direct entry into the expanding conflict.

Officials have repeatedly stressed that the authorization is limited to defensive objectives and is intended to deter further missile attacks while protecting regional stability and the safety of British citizens.