UK warns Iran it is 'prepared to defend itself' after Tehran's threats

London has issued a stark warning to Tehran, declaring its readiness to defend itself following Iran's threat to target any U.S. base used for attacks.

The Iranian military stated that any base facilitating U.S. strikes against Iran would be considered a "legitimate target." This declaration came after the Iranian government condemned the UK's decision to allow U.S. aircraft to use its military bases for operations against Iran, labeling the UK "complicit in war crimes."

A British government spokesperson affirmed the nation's armed forces are on constant alert. "We are committed to defending our population, our interests, and our allies, acting in accordance with international law and avoiding being drawn into a wider conflict," the spokesperson said. The UK has traditionally permitted U.S. "defensive" operations from its bases but has refused to support offensive missions.

However, recent reports suggest a shift in policy under the new Labour Prime Minister, Andy Burnham. Sources indicate Burnham has authorized U.S. aircraft to utilize bases in the Indian Ocean and Fairford in Gloucestershire for operations. This development follows incidents where Iran launched missiles at the British base in Diego Garcia and a drone struck a hangar at the RAF base in Akrotiri, Cyprus.

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We are committed to defending our population, our interests, and our allies, acting in accordance with international law and avoiding being drawn into a wider conflict.