Global media reports reveal that the United Kingdom has denied permission for U.S. President Donald Trump to use British RAF bases in the Chagos Islands to conduct potential military strikes against Iran. According to The Times, longstanding agreements between the U.S. and the U.K. necessitate explicit and prior approval from Britain for any military operations originating from these bases. London is apprehensive about granting such permission due to fears that it would violate international law, which does not differentiate between the attacking state and those providing support for military actions.

In a swift response to Britain's decision, President Trump reportedly withdrew U.S. support for the transfer of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. This reaction seems indicative of utilizing the issue as leverage against the British stance, highlighting the contentious dynamics of U.S.-U.K. relations regarding military operations and territorial negotiations. The Chagos Islands have been a point of contention for decades, particularly as they have been under British sovereignty since the 1960s, despite claims by Mauritius.

Meanwhile, on the Gaza situation, The Washington Post reported on a recent meeting of the Peace Council in Washington that drew criticism for the lack of involvement from major powers, including permanent members of the UN Security Council such as France, Britain, Russia, and China. Despite the attendance of delegations from 47 countries, the absence of significant nations raised eyebrows and highlighted ongoing grievances about Israel's inclusion in peace negotiations while Palestinian representation remains minimal, suggesting a dire need for a more equitable approach to the Middle Eastern peace process.