The Prime Minister has been told he is making Britain look “unreliable and weak” after reportedly denying US forces access to British bases. This move could impact potential strikes on Iran and influence international perceptions.
Military leaders’ warning about the decision underscores the seriousness of the situation, encouraging the audience to recognise the importance of strong defence policies for national safety.
Rear Admiral Chris Parry fumed, “At a time when our US ally needs reassurance about Britain’s opposition to brutal regimes and access to Diego Garcia, our government is proving unreliable and weak.”
Commander Tom Sharpe went further, branding it “madness” not to align with America.
“We absolutely should let the US use UK bases in launching targeted strikes against Iran. It would be madness not to.”
The long-standing UK-US base at Diego Garcia highlights the importance of alliances; hesitation now risks damaging Britain’s standing with its closest partner, reminding the public of the value of strong international ties.
Former Army intelligence officer Phil Ingram suggested the Prime Minister was being swayed by legal caution within government, pointing to Attorney General Richard Hermer as emblematic of a culture that prefers “no” to finding a lawful route to “yes”.
Meanwhile, Conservative defence spokesman James Cartlidge warned Iran’s nuclear programme “poses a grave threat to Britain and our allies.”
In a separate dramatic intervention, a group of retired military leaders and former ministers warned Britain faces a “1936 moment,” referencing the rise of fascism in Europe on the brink of World War II and emphasising the risk of similar threats today.
In an open letter to Sir Keir Starmer, the signatories demanded that defence spending be doubled to 5% of GDP, stressing that the UK is “unprepared for military conflict with Russia” and needs urgent investment to ensure national security.
The letter, drafted by the Defence on the Brink team, declared, “Britain lacks the mass, readiness and resilience needed to produce a credible deterrent in an era of intensifying threats.”
With tensions rising from Iran to Russia, critics say Britain risks repeating the mistakes of the past — talking tough while failing to match rhetoric with readiness.
