The UK government was informed ahead of US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites but received no request to use its Diego Garcia base, the minister confirmed.

Officials say Britain did not participate in the strikes but has repositioned military assets in the region and stands ready to defend allies if necessary.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has engaged with international partners and the Foreign Office is preparing charter flights to evacuate British nationals from Israel and the Palestinian territories once airspace reopens.

Diego Garcia remains on standby as part of contingency planning.