The United Kingdom has refused to allow the United States to use its military bases for a potential attack on Iran, according to reports published on February 20, 2026. Washington had proposed using a Royal Air Force base near Swindon in southwest England, but the British government declined the request over concerns that such action might violate international law.

The Times reported that the UK’s refusal may have influenced recent criticism from President Donald Trump regarding the lease agreement for the joint UK-US base on Diego Garcia and the planned transfer of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. A UK government spokesperson stated that the country does not comment on military operations but supports the ongoing political process between the US and Iran. The spokesperson reaffirmed that preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons and ensuring regional security remain the UK’s priorities.

The United States has been pressuring Iran to limit its nuclear program and has warned of possible military action, deploying warships, aircraft, and other assets to the region as part of its preparations.