Several UK lawmakers have pushed back against threats made by Donald Trump regarding Iran, calling on the British government to withdraw United States access to air bases located in the United Kingdom.
The calls followed a controversial statement by Trump, who warned that “a whole civilization will die tonight” as a deadline for Iran to agree to US demands and reach a ceasefire approached.
Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to take immediate action following what he described as “shocking threats” by the US president.
“Withdraw US access now to UK air bases, or risk letting British soil be used to commit war crimes,” Davey wrote in a post on X.
Davey’s remarks came after Trump issued a warning earlier Tuesday via Truth Social, stating that massive destruction could occur if a ceasefire agreement with Iran is not reached.
“A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will,” Trump wrote, intensifying global concerns over escalating tensions.
Adnan Hussain also strongly criticised Trump’s remarks, describing them as “catastrophic recklessness” and “dangerous lunacy.” Hussain warned that nuclear weapons in the hands of unstable leadership could threaten global security.
“Nuclear weapons in the hands of mad men like this put all humanity at risk. Disarmament is no longer a distant goal; it is an urgent necessity. An absolute must,” Hussain wrote on X.
In a separate post, Hussain argued that Britain cannot distance itself from potential military actions while allowing US forces to operate from British soil.
“The use of UK airbases for US military action must end immediately,” he said, urging the government to clarify that Britain does not support or endorse such actions.
Meanwhile, Jeremy Corbyn, now an independent lawmaker and former leader of the Labour Party, also voiced concern about Britain’s involvement in any potential conflict.
“We warned our government it was dragging Britain into an illegal war — and that the consequences would be catastrophic,” Corbyn said.
“Enough. End UK complicity now!” he added.
The controversy intensified after Trump threatened earlier to bomb power stations and bridges across Iran if Tehran failed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and reach an agreement by Tuesday night at 8 pm EDT (0000 GMT Wednesday).
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world’s most critical energy routes, with a significant portion of global oil shipments passing through the narrow waterway. Any disruption in the region could have major implications for global energy markets and international trade.
Regional tensions have escalated sharply since February 28, when Israel and the United States launched an offensive against Iran. The operation reportedly resulted in more than 1,340 deaths, including the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iranian authorities have not released updated casualty figures in recent days, but the conflict has continued to intensify.
In response, Tehran has launched retaliatory drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, as well as regional countries including Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf nations hosting US military installations.
The retaliatory attacks have reportedly caused casualties and damage to infrastructure while also disrupting global markets and aviation routes. Airlines have rerouted flights, and energy prices have fluctuated amid fears of further escalation.
The latest developments have sparked growing international concern over the possibility of a broader regional conflict. Analysts warn that increased involvement by major global powers could escalate tensions beyond the Middle East.
British lawmakers calling for restrictions on US military access argue that allowing US operations from UK bases could make Britain directly involved in any conflict.
The UK hosts several facilities used by US forces under longstanding defence agreements. These bases have historically supported NATO operations and joint military missions.
However, critics argue that using British territory for potential strikes against Iran could expose the UK to retaliatory threats and deepen involvement in the crisis.
As the deadline set by Trump approaches, pressure continues to mount on Prime Minister Starmer’s government to clarify Britain’s position.
The situation remains fluid, with global leaders urging restraint and diplomatic solutions to avoid further escalation.
Observers say the coming hours could be critical in determining whether tensions ease through negotiations or intensify into a wider confrontation.
