New UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has approved the continued use of British military bases by the United States for defensive strikes against Iran, preserving the policy established by former PM Keir Starmer. US aircraft would operate from Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford to counter Iranian missile threats and safeguard shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Burnham was briefed on a Friday meeting chaired by Starmer and supported continuing the existing arrangement, with ministers expected to carry it forward amidst political criticism. Opponents on the British left and other groups warn the policy could make Britain complicit in US military actions and raise legal concerns, especially after Trump’s readiness to escalate pressures on Iran. Some reports note Bloomberg’s account of the agreement while Reuters has not independently verified the details, but the decision aligns with Starmer’s framework and ongoing US operations. The move underscores ongoing U.S.-UK military cooperation in a tense Middle East context while powering political debate at home.