Sunday, March, 21 2026 - Iran has fired missiles towards the Diego Garcia base, according to US officials, in a move that underscores escalating tensions in the region.
Two intermediate-range ballistic missiles were reportedly
launched towards the base, located in the Chagos Islands, though neither struck
their target. One missile was intercepted by a US warship, while the other
failed during flight, officials said.
The UK Ministry of Defence condemned the incident,
describing it as a threat to British interests and allies, and confirmed that
military assets, including RAF jets, remain active in defending personnel in
the region.
The development comes after the UK granted the United States
limited permission to use British bases, including Diego Garcia, for defensive
operations linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reacted sharply,
warning that Tehran would “exercise its right to self-defence” and criticising
the UK’s involvement.
Diego Garcia, situated roughly 2,300 miles from Iran, is a
strategically significant military hub used by both UK and US forces, with
facilities capable of supporting long-range bombers, naval operations, and
logistics across the Middle East.
The incident is part of a broader escalation involving
attacks on energy infrastructure and shipping routes, particularly around the
Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over regional stability and global energy
supplies.
UK officials have indicated continued coordination with
allies while emphasising that British involvement remains focused on defensive
measures, as diplomatic and military tensions continue to intensify.
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