They issued the clear statement on preparedness to protect the capital and other parts of the country after Iran claimed Britain would “bear responsibility” for allowing the US to use British bases for Donald Trump’s war.
Britain has refused to take part in Trump’s offensive campaigns against Iran. But Sir Keir Starmer’s Government gave the go-ahead for the US to launch defensive strikes from British bases hosting American forces such as RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.
New Prime Minister Andy Burnham is maintaining this stance on the Iran conflict.
Fears have been raised that Iranian missiles might be able to reach London after two were launched unsuccessfully by Tehran at the Diego Garcia joint UK-US military bases on the Chagos Island, some 2,400 miles from Iran in the India Ocean.
But the Ministry of Defence stressed: “Our armed forces are ready to keep the United Kingdom safe from any kind of attacks, whether it’s on our soil or from abroad. The UK stands ready 24/7 to defend itself.
“This includes through operating a layered approach to air and missile defence, provided by Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force assets equipped with a range of advanced capabilities, working closely with our Nato allies.
“The UK’s approach to the conflict remains the same – we are committed to defending our people, our interests and our allies, acting in accordance with international law and not getting drawn into the wider conflict.”
Former Cabinet Secretary and ex-National Security Adviser Lord Sedwill has suggested that London may need an Israel-style “Iron Dome” for its defences.
