19/02/2026
Trump stated that if Iran does not agree to the deal between it and the United States, there is a possibility that the U.S. could use the island of Diego Garcia, which is under British control, to launch an attack on Iran.
He also added that he certainly expects Iran would attempt to attack Britain in response.
The question that arises here is: Is Britain prepared to face war with Iran in order to defend American interests, considering that it is one of the countries in the NATO security alliance?
1. Why Diego Garcia and Britain?
Diego Garcia is a British territory located in the middle of the Indian Ocean, but the United States leases it as a major air and naval military base.
Its importance: From there, the U.S. deploys long-range bomber aircraft (B-52 and B-2) to the Middle East.
The risk: If the U.S. uses this location to attack Iran, Iran may view Britain as a direct partner in the conflict.
2. The Warning of “Retaliatory Attack”
Trump suggests that if war breaks out, Iran would not limit its attacks to the United States alone. It could target any country that allows the U.S. to use its airspace or military bases. This includes:
Britain: Because of the bases the U.S. operates there.
European countries: Those affiliated with the NATO security alliance.
Arab countries: Such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which host U.S. military bases.
3. “If Iran Rejects the Agreement”
This reflects Trump’s political style of pressure-based negotiation (“Art of the Deal”). He uses military threats to push Iran to the negotiating table to reach a new agreement regarding its nuclear program and missile development.
4. Will America’s Allies Agree?
This is the major question. British and European leaders face internal pressure from their citizens:
Protests: Many people do not want to enter a war that could bring missile attacks upon their country.
Economy: A war in the region could cause global oil prices to rise sharply, affecting everyone.
In summary: Trump wants to show the world that the United States would not fight alone, and that everyone has something to lose if peace with Iran is not achieved.
On the other hand, Iran’s defense minister stated that any country that allows America to use its territory to attack Iran should understand that Iran would directly attack that country in retaliation.
