“But we are supporting defensive action to support our interests. That includes recognising Iran’s escalating…

“But we are supporting defensive action to support our interests. That includes recognising Iran’s escalating threats to international shipping, as well as their threats to our Gulf partners.” The Ministry of Defence, which described US use of British bases as “limited and defensive” in nature, earlier called the attacks “reckless”. A spokesperson said: “Iran’s reckless attacks, lashing out across the region and holding hostage the strait of Hormuz, are a threat to British interests and British allies.