Key facts
- Iran's Revolutionary Guards stated Britain would be a 'definite and legitimate target' if it supports the U.S. in a war.
- The Guards cited the use of British airfields by U.S. bombers as justification for the threat.
- The UK government affirmed its armed forces are prepared for 24/7 defense.
- Iran's foreign ministry labeled the UK an 'accomplice' in the U.S. war.
- The U.S. has completed 13 consecutive nights of strikes against targets in Iran.
- Iran summoned Ukrainian diplomats following a bombing of an Iranian ship in the Caspian Sea.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a warning that Britain, along with any nation supporting the United States in a conflict, would be considered a legitimate target. The IRGC spokesperson cited the use of British airfields by U.S. bombers as the basis for this threat. This declaration comes amid ongoing U.S. military actions, with U.S. Central Command reporting the completion of its 13th consecutive night of strikes against targets in Iran, aimed at degrading its ability to threaten maritime traffic. The UK government responded assertively, stating its armed forces are prepared to defend the nation around the clock. Iran's foreign ministry further escalated tensions by labeling the UK an 'accomplice' in the U.S. war. The IRGC also warned that any Israeli return to hostilities would be met with a devastating response. Separately, Tehran summoned Ukrainian diplomats after Kyiv bombed an Iranian ship in the Caspian Sea, resulting in at least one soldier's death and another's injury.