Arabic version: وزيرة الخارجية البريطانية ترد على تهديدات إيران بالصواريخ

The UK Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, has condemned what she described as “reckless Iranian threats” following reports of two ballistic missiles fired at the Diego Garcia military base in the Chagos Islands. According to BBC News, Cooper emphasized that the UK will continue to provide defensive support but will avoid being drawn into a broader conflict in the Middle East.

Reports from The Wall Street Journal and CNN indicated that while the missiles were aimed at the joint US-UK base, neither reached its target. One missile reportedly failed in flight, and the other was intercepted by a US warship. There are ongoing doubts regarding Iran’s missile capabilities to reach Diego Garcia, which is located approximately 2,350 miles from Iran.

The incident occurred late Thursday into Friday, with UK ministers convening to discuss the situation shortly after. The UK has permitted the US military to utilize British bases for strikes on Iranian sites that threaten shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. However, Cooper reiterated that the UK is not involved in offensive military actions.

The airbase at Diego Garcia has been a strategic location for military operations in the region but has faced limitations regarding its use for strikes against Iran. Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition, confirmed that RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus would not be used by the US for targeting Iranian missile sites, following recent drone attacks by Iran on the base.

As the conflict continues, Cooper highlighted that Iran’s actions are impacting the global economy and contributing to rising living costs in the UK. She stated that supporting families amid these challenges remains the government’s top priority.