Overview
- The authorization covers a specific defensive mission to destroy Iranian missile launchers and storage depots, with the UK ruling out participation in offensive strikes.
- Downing Street says a summary of the government’s legal advice will be published, citing collective self-defence as the basis under international law.
- US operations are expected to launch from Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford, while Starmer told MPs that British bases in Cyprus are not being used by US bombers.
- An Iranian-made drone struck RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus with limited damage and no casualties, and UK jets have intercepted Iranian strikes during coordinated defensive operations.
- Opposition parties are pressing for a Commons vote as President Trump criticizes Starmer’s initial hesitation, and the prime minister tells parliament he stands by keeping the UK out of the first wave of attacks.