UK sends fighter jets to protect UAE from Iran
Photo: British Defense Secretary John Healey (Getty Images)
The United Kingdom has deployed fighter jets to patrol the airspace over the United Arab Emirates amid escalating tensions with Iran, BBC reports.
British Defense Secretary John Healey stated that UK forces are conducting defensive air missions to support allies in the region.
He emphasized that the UK’s response has been "driven at all times by military advice". The Defense Secretary called the Iranian regime a "destructive force which has slaughtered protesters" and urged Tehran to abandon its nuclear ambitions and return to negotiations.
According to Healey, British forces have already shot down two drones—one over Jordan and another over Bahrain.
At the same time, the UK continues to increase its presence in the region. A third Wildcat helicopter has arrived in Cyprus, and Royal Air Force specialists are deployed in at least five Middle Eastern countries.
Additionally, eight British aircraft are based in Qatar, and in Cyprus, according to the minister, London has more jets "than any other nation."
On February 28, the US and Israel launched a joint military operation against Iran. In response, Tehran began carrying out strikes on several countries in the Middle East.
Iranian attacks have affected several countries in the region, putting even territories far from Iran, such as Cyprus, at risk. Meanwhile, countries sharing a border with Iran - Armenia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Turkmenistan - have not yet been targeted.
In early March, the leaders of Germany, France, and the UK warned Iran that they could join the US and Israeli operation if Tehran continues its attacks.
Meanwhile, France is increasing its military presence in the region. President Emmanuel Macron announced the deployment of warships to escort container ships and oil tankers near the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supplies.
