• The UK has authorized the US to use military bases for strikes on Iranian missile sites.
• This decision follows Iran's attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
• Prime Minister Keir Starmer initially rejected US military action but changed his stance after Iran's aggression.

The British government has authorized the United States to use military bases in the UK for strikes on Iranian missile sites that are targeting ships in the Strait of Hormuz. This decision follows escalating tensions due to Iran's blockade of this crucial shipping lane, according to BBC, Channel News Asia, and India Times.

British ministers met to discuss the conflict and confirmed that the agreement includes US defensive operations aimed at degrading missile sites used to target vessels in the region. Despite initially rejecting a US request for strikes due to legal concerns, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reversed his stance after Iran's actions threatened British interests, as noted by Reuters, and South China Morning Post.

The authorization has sparked criticism, including from US President Donald Trump, who laments that Britain is not contributing enough to the conflict. He referred to his disappointment with the UK, which he previously regarded as a premier ally, according to BBC and India Times.

Downing Street has called for urgent de-escalation of the conflict and emphasizes the necessity of a swift resolution, highlighting concerns regarding the impact of continued hostilities on global oil prices and stability, as reported by Reuters and South China Morning Post.