LONDON: British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has approved the continued use of UK military bases for US defensive operations against Iran, maintaining the policy adopted by the previous government.

According to Bloomberg, the new British government has authorized the United States to use UK military facilities for operations that London classifies as defensive, as President Donald Trump intensifies military action against Iran.

Sources told the publication that former Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened a meeting of senior ministers and top officials last Friday to review Britain's policy following the resumption of US military operations earlier this month.

During the meeting, it was decided that the Diego Garcia military base and RAF Fairford would remain available for US aircraft. The facilities are expected to support efforts to counter Iranian missile threats and conduct operations related to the Strait of Hormuz.

Burnham, who assumed office as prime minister on Monday, was briefed on the outcome of the discussions and endorsed the decision, according to the report.

The report added that the new prime minister intends to continue the previous government's policy of allowing British military bases to be used for US defensive operations.

The decision means US forces may continue to use British military bases during certain phases of their ongoing operations involving Iran.