The Digester

Britain tells US to explain legal basis for Iran strikes after Trump criticism

Mar 3rd 2026

Ministers say Britain will only back military action with a clear legal basis and plan, restricting US use of UK bases to defensive operations after a public row with President Trump.

  • UK ministers say the United States must set out the legal justification for its military strikes on Iran.
  • Downing Street declined to join the initial US strikes because they did not meet the prime minister's tests of legality and a clear plan.
  • Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer authorised use of UK bases only for defensive strikes on the basis of mutual self-defence.
  • President Trump publicly criticised Starmer and the UK, saying the relationship feels changed and praising other European partners.
  • A No 10 minister described the Special Relationship as operating on a functional basis amid the dispute.
  • The wider conflict has seen US strikes, Israeli action against Hezbollah, Iranian attacks on Israel and Gulf energy sites, and US travel warnings for several regional states.

Sources

standard.co.uk