Explainer: Have European countries been involved in the US-Israeli war on Iran?
Explainer: Have European countries been involved in the US-Israeli war on Iran? Submitted by Daniel Tester on Wed, 08/19/2026 - 09:51 From the UK's Diego Garcia to Bulgaria's airfields, dozens of European bases have supported US operations against Iran, even as some leaders publicly kept their distance from the war French President Emmanuel Macron and US President Donald Trump leave after a…
The war between the United States and Israel against Iran has seen significant involvement from European countries despite some leaders publicly distancing themselves from the conflict. According to sources, dozens of European bases have supported US operations in Iran, even as nations like France and the UK have faced pressure from US President Donald Trump to aid the war effort.
French President Emmanuel Macron has consistently emphasized that any French military involvement in the war is defensive, criticizing the US and Israel's initial strikes as being outside international law. Despite this, France has allowed US military support jets to land at its Istres and Avord bases. The UK, with its strong ties to the US, has been the most supportive European country, allowing US bombers to deploy from bases such as Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford.
The UK has also utilized its Middle Eastern bases to carry out strikes against Iranian drones and reposition military assets in the region. However, the war has been unpopular across Europe, leading to criticism over attacks on Iranian civilians and causing fuel prices to surge.
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