New British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has approved the continued use of British military bases by U.S. forces for what the United Kingdom describes as defensive strikes against Iran, Bloomberg reports.

The decision maintains the policy adopted under former Prime Minister Keir Starmer as President Trump intensifies U.S. military operations against Iran.

Senior ministers and officials met Friday to review Britain’s position following the resumption of American operations earlier this month. They agreed that U.S. aircraft could continue using Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean and RAF Fairford in England for missions aimed at countering Iranian missile threats and attacks targeting the Strait of Hormuz.

Burnham, who became prime minister on Monday, was briefed on the discussions and approved the decision. British bases are therefore expected to support at least some operations during the current round of U.S. action.

The move presents an early political challenge for Burnham, who faces pressure from left-wing parties opposing the use of British bases while President Trump seeks greater British support for the war.

British officials have also expressed concern over the legal implications of possible U.S. strikes against Iranian civilian infrastructure, including bridges and power plants.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)