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 SAS facility suffered a drone attack, resulting in injuries to American troops, as concerns grew over Vladimir Putin’s potential support for Iran’s military strategies.
A swarm of Iranian drones targeted a joint Special Forces base in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan region, during the early hours of Wednesday.
“We have personnel in Erbil who are currently assisting with the defense of that base,” said Brigadier Guy Foden, a commander at Britain’s Permanent Joint Headquarters. “Last night they shot down two UAVs approaching the camp, but several drones managed to strike the facility.”
According to The Sun, the attack left American soldiers with injuries, though no British personnel were harmed. Lt Gen Nick Perry, UK global operations commander, informed Defence Secretary John Healey that the US casualties were not critical.
“All our people remain safe, touch wood, but the Americans took some casualties last night, though nothing too serious,” Perry added during a briefing.
Healey’s remarks came as he highlighted suspicions that Putin’s influence could be behind Iran’s tactical advancements in the Middle East. During a visit to Northwood military headquarters in Hertfordshire on Thursday, he noted evidence of a growing connection between Russia and Iran, including the latter’s use of drones.
When asked for specific examples, Healey stated: “We’re currently examining the drone that struck Akrotiri’s hangar to identify any Russian or foreign components. While we haven’t confirmed it yet, many would assume Putin’s unseen influence is shaping some of Iran’s actions, particularly given his financial gains from high oil prices.”
Regional military responses
Following the attack, the UK has intensified air patrols over Jordan, Qatar, and the UAE, alongside refueling missions to protect allied interests. RAF Typhoon and F-35B jets have been active, with over 300 operational hours logged since the incident.
A British Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems unit also neutralized two drones overnight, preventing further harm to civilians in the area. These actions underscore the UK’s commitment to securing the region.
Iran’s strategic warnings and global impact
Iran’s threat to block shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has already caused a sharp rise in heating oil prices, doubling within a week. This follows the US-Israeli strikes that killed Ayatollah Khamenei’s father, prompting the new Supreme Leader to issue a message of retaliation.
“I assure everyone that we will not hesitate to avenge the blood of your martyrs,” Khamenei declared in a written statement. “The revenge we are considering extends beyond the martyrdom of the revolution’s leader; every national casualty is a cause for independent retaliation.”
Despite reports of his severe injuries, including a lost leg and potential coma, Khamenei’s message was broadcast by Iranian state television. The statement follows the US-Israeli strikes that disrupted Iran’s leadership, with the country now vowing to respond forcefully.
