The United Kingdom has slammed ‘reckless Iranian threats’ after missiles targeted a joint United States-UK military base located on the Indian Ocean island of Diego Garcia.
An Iranian official denied the allegations that Iran was behind the missile launch.
The US has not officially commented on the incident, which occurred after the US and Israel launched a war on Iran on February 28. Tehran claims its nuclear program is for civilian purposes and denies allegations of developing nuclear weapons.
Reports suggest two ballistic missiles were launched at Diego Garcia, with one failing mid-flight and the other being intercepted by a US warship.
The UK agreed to let the US use its military bases for self-defense in response to Iranian actions in the region, but UK officials have not provided details of the attempted missile strikes on Diego Garcia.
Iran has denied responsibility for the alleged missile launch, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stating that Iran intentionally limits its missile range to below 2,000km to avoid being seen as a threat.
Israel’s military chief claimed Iran targeted the US-UK base with missiles capable of reaching Europe’s capitals, raising concerns about the escalating conflict.
The Diego Garcia airbase, home to nearly 2,500 mostly American personnel, has been a target due to its strategic location in the Indian Ocean and its support of US military operations.
The missile launch reflects Iran’s response to the war initiated by the US and Israel, expanding the geographical scope of the conflict and increasing the risks involved.
The situation remains tense as international players navigate the complexities of the ongoing conflict.
