UK cabinet put on high alert over possible US strikes on Iran
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The UK is preparing for possible US strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer's cabinet discussing the use of the Diego Garcia base amid growing tensions.
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British Prime Minister Kier Starmer arrives at Calgary International Airport, Sunday, June, 15, 2025, ahead of the G7 Summit, in Calgary. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has placed his cabinet on high alert over growing concerns that the United States may conduct military strikes against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, according to a report by the Financial Times.
The paper cited sources familiar with the matter, noting that Starmer’s team has been engaged in high-level discussions on the potential use of UK-linked military assets in the region.
Officials reportedly described the situation in the Middle East as "grave and volatile," as fears mount over an imminent escalation.
On Tuesday, Axios reported that US President Donald Trump is seriously considering a military intervention targeting Iranian nuclear sites, specifically the Fordow underground uranium enrichment facility. Citing American officials, the outlet said Trump is reviewing options that would mark a significant expansion of the US role in the ongoing war.
The deliberations follow "Israel's" June 13 attack against Iran, which included aerial bombings and sabotage raids on what it claimed were secret military nuclear sites. Targets reportedly included nuclear facilities, air bases, air defense systems, surface-to-surface missiles, and senior military and scientific personnel.
Diego Garcia base could be used in joint attack
The Financial Times report noted that the UK cabinet has examined the possibility of the US using the jointly operated British-American military base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean to carry out strikes against Iran. However, sources said no clear consensus has emerged on whether US forces would be required to seek British approval for such action.
While the UK government has not issued an official statement on the matter, the discussions reflect deep concern over the potential for the Middle East conflict to widen rapidly.
Moreover, Iran has denied that its nuclear program has any military objectives, insisting that its nuclear efforts remain peaceful and aimed at energy development and medical research.
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi said on June 18 that the IAEA has not seen concrete evidence of an active Iranian nuclear weapons program, with the conclusions of US intelligence maintaining that Iran is not actively pursuing nuclear arms at present.
Despite "Israel’s" allegations and ongoing military strikes, both international monitors and intelligence assessments suggest there is no verified indication that Iran seeks to develop nuclear weapons.
Human rights advocate and former UK ambassador to Uzbekistan, Craig Murray, told RIA Novosti that Iran has demonstrated "extraordinary responsibility and patience" over the years, particularly in response to aggressive actions by the Israeli occupation.
As deliberations continue in Washington and London, diplomatic and military analysts warn that any direct US strike on Iran could ignite a broader war across the region, drawing in multiple state actors and dramatically raising the stakes.
