Stuart Crawford: The UK’s Role in Any US Action Against Iran Should Remain Limited

The current question is whether the UK should allow its territory and facilities to be used in support of potential US strikes on Iran. While it’s a serious issue, many of the key considerations have already been tested and weighed.

Even if the UK were to deny the US access to bases like Diego Garcia, it wouldn’t fundamentally prevent an American attack launched from the continental United States. It would, however, make such operations more complicated and logistically challenging.

Yet the reality is that the US has already moved its aerial tanker fleet into position. These aircraft — essential for air-to-air refuelling — have crossed the Atlantic and are now stationed in Europe and the Middle East. So, while UK denial would be an inconvenience, it wouldn’t halt operations.

Frankly, I don’t believe Britain needs to get directly involved. We don’t bring a great deal to the table militarily in this context. Nevertheless, we’re already involved in indirect ways.

Cyprus, for instance, is a crucial staging post and part of the logistics chain used by the US and its allies. British bases there might be used for refuelling or as stepping stones for movement across the Mediterranean. This wouldn’t be unusual — many nations utilise such facilities.

Even within the UK itself, US military aircraft are refuelling at multiple sites, including Glasgow Prestwick Airport, which, ironically, is owned by the Scottish Government.

So while Britain may not be taking an active combat role, our infrastructure — knowingly or otherwise — continues to support operations. That’s a fact worth recognising.

‘The bar for the Iranians is very low, it is regime survival and domestic security.’ Former Head of Counter-Terrorism at MOD Major General Chip Chapman on if the UK should join the US in any potential military action against Iran.

Lt Col Stuart Crawford is a defence analyst and former army officer. Sign up for his podcasts and newsletters at www.DefenceReview.uk

Lt Col Stuart Crawford’s latest book Tank Commander (Hardback) is available now

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