Iran Warns UK as Switzerland Halts US Arms, Two Iranians Arrested at UK Nuclear Base
Iran has issued a strong warning to the United Kingdom, accusing it of “participation in aggression” for allowing the United States to use British military bases amid the ongoing conflict, as the war continues to trigger global political, economic, and security repercussions.
During a phone conversation with UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi criticized London’s stance and urged it to halt cooperation with Washington. In a statement shared on social media, Araghchi warned that permitting US access to UK bases—even for defensive operations—would be viewed as direct involvement.
“These actions will definitely be considered as participation in aggression and will be recorded in the history of relations between the two countries,” he said, adding that Iran reserves the right to defend its sovereignty.
UK Defends Limited Role
The British government has denied direct involvement in offensive operations. Officials stated that while the UK did not support initial strikes against Iran, it later authorized the US to use its bases strictly for defensive purposes in response to Iranian missile attacks.
A spokesperson for Downing Street emphasized that the UK is not seeking deeper involvement in the conflict, describing its position as measured and aimed at preventing further escalation.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the decision, saying it aligns with Britain’s national interests. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has publicly criticized the UK for not taking a more active role in the war.
Rising Tensions and Retaliation
The conflict has expanded beyond direct military strikes. Iran condemned British criticism of its retaliatory actions following an attack on the South Pars gas field and responded by targeting energy infrastructure in Qatar.
Tehran has also issued broader warnings, with military officials stating that US and Israeli-linked individuals and locations could face risks globally.
Global Energy and Economic Shock
One of the most immediate consequences of the war has been disruption in global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route, has seen a sharp decline in traffic amid threats of drone and missile attacks on vessels.
The disruption has driven oil and gas prices sharply higher, increasing pressure on economies worldwide. The International Energy Agency has warned that restoring normal supply flows could take months.
Starmer acknowledged the economic risks, cautioning that prolonged conflict would significantly raise the cost of living and reiterating that a diplomatic solution remains the best path forward.
Switzerland Halts Arms Exports to US
In a significant development, Switzerland has suspended approvals for weapons exports to the United States, citing its long-standing neutrality. The move reflects growing international concern over involvement in the conflict and signals widening divisions among Western allies.
NATO Adjusts Operations
The NATO mission in Iraq has been partially withdrawn due to security concerns, with only a limited number of personnel remaining. Officials described the move as temporary, driven by fears of escalating instability in the region.
Mounting Humanitarian Concerns
The humanitarian toll continues to rise sharply. According to Iranian relief authorities, over 1,400 people have been killed in Iran, including at least 204 children. In neighboring Lebanon, more than 1,000 deaths have been reported amid continued strikes.
The war has also triggered broader instability, including security crackdowns, arrests, and attacks linked to the conflict across multiple countries.
Growing Political Pressure in the UK
Back in Britain, political pressure is mounting on the government. The Green Party of England and Wales has called on the government to withdraw permission for US use of British bases and to clarify whether operations are strictly defensive.
In a letter to the prime minister, party members also requested transparency regarding civilian casualties potentially linked to missions launched from UK territory.
Attempted Breach at UK Nuclear Submarine Base
Authorities in Scotland have detained two individuals after a failed attempt to enter HM Naval Base Clyde, the highly sensitive facility at Faslane that houses Britain’s nuclear-armed submarine fleet. Police Scotland confirmed the arrest of a 34-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman on Thursday afternoon.
While official statements have not specified their nationalities, reports indicate the man is an Iranian national. The pair was intercepted by Ministry of Defence Police after their vehicle was deemed suspicious in the vicinity of the high-security site.
Israeli Iron Dome Reservist Charged with Espionage
In Israel, a severe indictment has been filed against Raz Cohen, a 26-year-old Jerusalem resident and IDF reservist. Cohen, who served as a technician within an Iron Dome air defense unit, is accused of maintaining contact with Iranian intelligence operatives for several months.
Prosecutors allege he provided sensitive technical data, including the precise locations of air defense batteries and military airbases, in exchange for roughly $1,000 in cryptocurrency. Authorities state that Cohen was fully aware his handlers were Iranian agents and that his actions were intended to undermine national security during the current conflict.
