An American B-1 Lancer bomber landed at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire on Friday evening, as the conflict with Iran entered its eighth day. The arrival comes amid US warnings of a “surge” in strikes on Iran.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has granted permission for “defensive” US action against Iranian missile sites from UK bases. A second government charter flight carrying British citizens from Oman landed at Gatwick Airport early on Saturday, as efforts continue to help those trapped in the war zone.
The Titan Airways flight departed from Muscat International Airport before a short layover in Cairo, Egypt. The latest arrivals join around 6,500 Britons who have returned from the United Arab Emirates since the conflict began.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has suggested that RAF jets could legally strike Iranian missile sites being used to attack British interests in the Middle East. In a call with Saudi Arabia’s de facto leader Mohammed bin Salman, Sir Keir said the UK stands ready to help defend the country if needed.
Britain has faced criticism from allies over its response, particularly regarding the defence of Cyprus, where a UK base was struck by a drone. Air defence destroyer HMS Dragon is not expected to sail to the eastern Mediterranean until next week, while France and Greece have already deployed military assets to the island.
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch is expected to renew her attack on the UK’s response in a speech on Saturday, saying “allies feel they can no longer rely on us”. Sir Keir has defended his decision not to permit US use of British bases in the opening assault, suggesting it could have been unlawful and arguing the government must keep a “cool head”.
