Rafael Behr examines the strategic dilemma facing Keir Starmer following Donald Trump’s strikes on Iran. Initially, Starmer hesitated to allow US use of UK military bases, but on Sunday evening he agreed to permit the use of two bases, while insisting the UK does not support regime change from the skies.
Trump responded by stating the relationship is “obviously not what it was”. Behr warns of Britain’s vulnerability if the US were to withdraw its support, particularly post-Brexit, highlighting the deep enmeshment of defence systems and the Pentagon’s control over keys and codes that could affect UK safety.
