London, United Kingdom. The British government confirmed on Friday it has not allowed the United States to launch strikes against Iran from UK-controlled bases, as US warships move closer to the Levant and regional military activity intensifies.
No UK clearance for operations from Akrotiri or Chagos
UK officials said Whitehall has given no clearance for operations against Iran to be conducted from RAF Akrotiri, nor from its bases on the Chagos islands in the Indian Ocean, amid concerns that such action could breach international law.
“The UK is not thought to be preparing to support any US military offensive,” Sky News reported, citing government sources.
US expands military footprint in the region
The clarification comes as the US significantly expands its military footprint in the region.
The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is already operating nearby and is due to be joined by the USS Gerald R Ford, which is expected to reach waters south of Cyprus within days.
The carrier groups are supported by destroyers equipped with air defence systems and Tomahawk cruise missiles, submarines and auxiliary vessels.
UK describes Cyprus deployments as defensive
British officials said recent UK deployments to Cyprus are defensive.
Six RAF F-35 fighter jets are already stationed at Akrotiri, with four Typhoon aircraft redeployed to Qatar, moves described as precautionary in case of any Iranian retaliation following potential US action.
US air assets repositioned across Europe and the Middle East
US air assets have been repositioned across Europe and the Middle East, with more than 15 aerial refuelling tankers moving since mid-January to locations including Greece and Bulgaria.
American aircraft are operating from several hubs, with what military strategists described as “more than 100 combat aircraft” in the potential theatre.
What impact do you think the growing military presence could have on regional stability?