UK Expands US Base Access to Include Strait of Hormuz Ship Protection Operations

Britain announced it has authorized the United States to use its military bases for operations targeting capabilities used to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz. In a decision reached at today's Cabinet meeting, the scope of US access to British bases has been expanded to now include operations to protect vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Previously, London had only authorized use of its bases for operations aimed at preventing missile strikes threatening British interests or citizens. Downing Street emphasized that despite this decision, Britain will not directly participate in the strikes and that "the principles of the country's approach to the conflict have not changed." A Downing Street spokesperson said: "Ministers agreed that the bases can be used for US defensive operations to target capabilities being used to attack shipping in the Strait of Hormuz." The spokesperson added that ministers stressed "the need for immediate de-escalation and rapid achievement of a solution to end the war."