The UK is sending additional troops and air defence systems to the Middle East in a defensive move against Iranian attacks, bringing the total number of British personnel in the Gulf and Cyprus to around 1,000.
Defence Secretary John Healey announced the deployment of extra air defence teams and systems to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait, while the use of Typhoon jets in Qatar will be extended. Healey said Gulf nations viewed UK forces as a “cornerstone” to their defence, adding that Iran had been “expanding” its attacks.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reiterated that Britain would not be “dragged into this war”, insisting UK troops would not be deployed on the ground in Iran.
The comments come after US President Donald Trump criticised the UK for not participating in earlier strikes on Iran, suggesting Britain should “learn how to fight for yourself”. Healey dismissed the irritation, emphasising that the two nations’ militaries remain closely bound.
