The British government has categorically denied a report claiming it authorized the United States to use military bases in the UK to carry out strikes on Iranian missile sites. A spokesperson for the UK Ministry of Defence stated on March 21, 2026, that the report is "categorically false."
The original, unverified report suggested the authorization was given on Friday, March 20, following a meeting of British ministers to discuss the security of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait remains a critical global chokepoint for oil shipments.
Tensions in the region have been periodically high, with past incidents involving attacks on commercial shipping. However, the UK government's firm denial contradicts the specific claim of granting basing rights for offensive strikes. Officials reiterated the UK's commitment to diplomatic resolutions regarding regional security.
