UK Special Forces Alert for Potential US Ground Assault on Iran
Britain's elite Special Boat Service (SBS) is reportedly on high alert, prepared to assist United States troops if they launch a ground attack against Iran. This development comes as over 2,500 US Marines are deploying to the Gulf region, equipped and ready to seize Kharg Island off the Iranian coast in the Strait of Hormuz, should President Donald Trump issue the order.
Strategic Readiness and Military Capabilities
The Marine Expeditionary Unit en route to the Gulf is heavily armed, including tanks, artillery, and fighter jets, underscoring the seriousness of the escalating conflict. A defence source informed the Daily Star Sunday that the SBS, renowned for its expertise in the Gulf, could play a critical role in reconnaissance operations prior to any land invasion. These highly trained frogmen specialise in sabotage missions, such as placing mines on ships, and covert underwater operations.
The source elaborated: "The SBS have a unique capability when it comes to underwater operations. They can assist in helping the US to plan for any invasion. This could involve offering advice as well as conducting reconnaissance operations alongside their US Navy SEALs." SBS troops often utilise swimmer delivery vehicles to infiltrate enemy harbours and beaches, aiding in the planning of amphibious assaults.
Iranian Threats and Diplomatic Tensions
Tensions have been further inflamed by Iran's response to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's decision to permit US bombers to use RAF bases for offensive operations. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that this move endangers British lives, stating on social media platform X: "The vast majority of the British people do not want any part in the Israel-US war of choice on Iran. Ignoring his own people, Mr Starmer is putting British lives in danger by allowing UK bases to be used for aggression against Iran. Iran will exercise its right to self-defence."
Following Downing Street's announcement, Iran claimed it launched two ballistic missiles at the secretive joint UK-US Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean. Although neither missile struck the base, this action has raised alarms about Iran's potentially more advanced ballistic missile capabilities than previously assessed.
Political Reactions and Strategic Implications
President Trump criticised the UK's response time, remarking to reporters outside the White House: "It's been a very late response from the UK." He had previously indicated that the US might scale back attacks against Iran but emphasised that securing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for 20% of global oil, should fall to other nations. On his Truth Social platform, Trump posted: "The Strait of Hormuz will have to be guarded and policed by other nations who use it – The United States does not! If asked, we will help these countries in their Hormuz efforts, but it shouldn't be necessary once Iran's threat is eradicated." He added that it would be an easy military operation for them and suggested the US is nearing its objectives in the Middle East regarding Iran.
This situation highlights the volatile geopolitical landscape, with British special forces poised for potential involvement in a conflict that could have far-reaching consequences for global security and energy markets.
