The UK official source confirmed that Iran's "unsuccessful targeting of Diego Garcia" took place before Friday's announcement. "This government has given permission to the US to use British bases for specific and limited defensive operations." American forces have stationed bombers and other equipment at Diego Garcia, a key hub for Asia operations, including the US bombing campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq. Under that agreement, the UK would maintain a lease for the base on Diego Garcia, the largest of the islands. In turn, Cooper warned Araghchi "against targeting UK bases, territory or interests directly", according to a UK foreign office statement.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha March 21, 2026 18:09 UTC