Special forces base struck by swarm of drones amid fears Putin is helping Iran
Special forces base struck by swarm of drones amid fears Putin is helping Iran
A British Special Forces outpost in Erbil, the Kurdish regional capital, faced a drone attack that left US troops injured, sparking worries about potential Russian support for Iran’s military strategies.
The strike occurred during the early hours of Wednesday, as a group of Iranian drones targeted the facility. Brigadier Guy Foden, a UK military commander, disclosed:
‘Our personnel in Erbil are assisting with the base’s defense. Last night, two UAVs were intercepted, yet several others successfully reached the compound.’
Although no British forces were harmed, the incident raised questions about the geopolitical ties between Moscow and Tehran. Defence Secretary John Healey highlighted the possibility of Putin’s indirect involvement in Iran’s tactics, stating:
‘At this stage, we’re examining the drone that damaged a hangar at Akrotiri for any Russian or foreign components. I believe many would agree that Putin’s influence might be shaping some of Iran’s actions, especially given his current financial gains from soaring oil prices.’
UK Military Response
Following the attack, the UK deployed air patrols over Jordan, Qatar, and the UAE to safeguard allied interests. RAF Typhoon and F-35B jets, supported by Voyager refueling aircraft, continued defensive operations in the region.
Healey also visited Northwood military headquarters in Hertfordshire, where he received updates on British operations. He noted:
‘The reports of Iran’s activity in the Strait of Hormuz are gaining credibility. The evidence of commercial ships being targeted is growing, and this has significant implications for global oil markets.’
British pilots have accumulated over 300 operational flight hours since the conflict began, downing multiple drones in support of regional allies. A Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems unit also neutralized two threats overnight, protecting civilian lives.
Iran’s Vengeance Message
The attack follows Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei’s first statement of retaliation after his father was killed in US-Israeli strikes. In a written address, he declared:
‘We will not hesitate to avenge the blood of our martyrs. The revenge we plan extends beyond the loss of our late leader; every national casualty is a separate cause for retribution.’
Despite claims he lost a leg and sustained serious abdominal injuries in the attack, Khamenei’s message was broadcast by Iranian state TV. Some reports suggest he is in a coma, though this has not been confirmed.
Iran’s threat to block the Strait of Hormuz has already caused heating oil prices to rise sharply, underscoring the strategic importance of the region. Healey emphasized that while initial steps are being taken, a coordinated response to secure the straits is still in progress.
