How is that joining with what the US and Israel did?
It's protecting British personnel from any attacks that may come as a response to the US/Israel action.
But the statement explicitly says "The United Kingdom played no role in these strikes."
Starmer is also catching criticism from the Conservatives and Reform because the UK hasn't been involved
On the UK 's response to the US-Israeli strikes on Iran, shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel told the BBC she found it "absolutely astonishing" Sir Keir had not been more proactive in its support.
And from here
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, wrote on X: "The Prime Minister needs to change his mind on the use of our military bases and back the Americans in this vital fight against Iran!"
Meanwhile Emily Thornberry, a senior Labour MP and often critic of Starmer said:
"I am pleased to see the UK is not involved in these strikes on Iran. They are ill-advised and illegal.