Iran has threatened to target British forces in the Chagos Islands if the US initiates military action against it, following President Trump’s warnings concerning nuclear negotiations. The Iranian military claims readiness to strike the Diego Garcia base and highlighted its strategic military importance. The UK condemned these threats, emphasizing security partnerships in the region, while potential diplomatic engagements between Iran and the US remain complex and indirect.
Iran has issued a warning that it will target British forces stationed at the Chagos Islands if the United States undertakes military action against the nation. This threat follows President Trump’s announcement of potential military intervention in Iran unless a nuclear agreement is established. A senior Iranian military official communicated that Tehran is prepared to strike the joint US-UK naval base on Diego Garcia if attacked by the US.
The Iranian official stated, “There will be no distinction in targeting British or American forces if Iran is attacked from any base in the region or within the range of Iranian missiles.” He emphasized that soldiers from the US, UK, or Turkey could be targeted if their bases are utilized for American operations. Iranian media reiterated that Tehran is capable of launching attacks against the Diego Garcia facility, armed with ballistic missiles and suicide drones.
Iran asserted its readiness to employ advanced weaponry, including newer Khorramshahr missiles and Shahed-136B drones, which can reach up to 4,000 km. The military identified the Diego Garcia base as crucial due to its hosting of strategic bombers, particularly the B-2 Spirit, capable of targeting Iran’s underground sites during any offensive.
The United Kingdom’s government has condemned Iran’s threats, reaffirming the significance of the Diego Garcia base to both UK and US security. The UK government is engaged with regional partners to promote de-escalation, stating that the facility is vital for maintaining both regional and international security. Furthermore, Iranian media suggested that Diego Garcia is among several US military installations that are potential targets due to their military significance.
Diego Garcia, the largest island in the Chagos Archipelago, is under British sovereignty. The UK is in discussions regarding the future of the islands, with plans to possibly lease Diego Garcia back to the UK for military purposes at a cost of £90 million annually. This situation remains contentious as about 4,000 US and UK personnel are stationed at the island.
President Trump’s return to a “maximum pressure” campaign aims to curb Iran’s nuclear aspirations through stringent measures against its oil exports. Trump maintains interest in negotiating a nuclear deal, warning Iran of severe consequences if a satisfactory agreement is not reached. He stated, “very bad things are going to happen to Iran” if negotiations fail, expressing a preference for a diplomatic resolution.
Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has firmly rejected the prospect of direct negotiations, asserting that engaging with the US will not yield solutions. A political scientist noted that in the face of military aggression, the Iranian regime may act defensively and aggressively, much like a wounded animal. It is believed that the regime feels isolated, recalling the fate of Assad and doubting assistance from Russia or China.
The Iranian leadership has communicated with Trump indirectly, maintaining the possibility of dialogue without yielding to direct US pressure. Senior officials indicated that while direct negotiations are not an option under current circumstances, indirect discussions may still be entertained as they have been in the past.
Iran’s declarations underscore the heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, particularly regarding military actions and nuclear negotiations. The response strategy includes potential targeting of joint US-UK facilities, demonstrating Iran’s insistence on its military capabilities. The UK government is working to maintain security and de-escalate tensions in the region amid these threats. Finally, while Iran shows openness to negotiation, the complexities of the relationship with the US remain fraught with challenges.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
