Tehran, March 21 (NationPress) Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has delivered a stern message to the United Kingdom on Saturday, asserting that Tehran will take action if the UK's role in the ongoing conflict intensifies. In a post on X, Araghchi stated, "The vast majority of the British public oppose any involvement in the Israel-U.S. conflict against Iran. By disregarding the sentiments of his own citizens, Mr. Starmer is jeopardizing British lives by permitting UK bases to be utilized for acts of aggression against Iran. Iran will assert its right to self-defense."

This remark comes amid heightened tensions following reports that U.S. forces have been allowed access to British military installations. During a phone call with UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, Araghchi expressed similar alarm, stating that such collaboration would be interpreted as "participation in aggression" against Iran.

In response, the UK government has countered. In the same dialogue, Cooper advised Iran against targeting "UK bases, territory, or interests," emphasizing the potential for further escalation.

Tensions escalated after Iran attempted to launch two ballistic missiles aimed at Diego Garcia, a strategically significant joint U.S.-UK military base located in the Indian Ocean. Neither missile reached its intended target—one reportedly malfunctioned in flight, while the other was intercepted by a U.S. naval defense system, though it remains uncertain if it was successfully destroyed.

This attempted strike has raised alarms regarding Iran's missile capabilities, given that Diego Garcia is situated approximately 4,000 kilometers from Iranian territory, suggesting a potentially extended range than previously estimated. The base is vital for regional security, hosting U.S. bombers, nuclear submarines, and guided-missile destroyers.

Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reiterated that Britain does not aim for a broader military engagement in the Middle Eastern conflict. Earlier this week, he asserted that the UK would not be drawn into a larger war, even as it considers options to support allies, including possible naval deployments to protect shipping lanes in the crucial Strait of Hormuz.

Starmer recognized the complexity of the situation, indicating that decisions regarding military involvement are "challenging," especially amidst pressure from the United States. He highlighted that while the UK is dedicated to safeguarding its interests and allies, it continues to seek a diplomatic solution to restore stability in the region.