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 station in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdish region, faced a drone assault that left American personnel injured, sparking concerns about potential Russian backing for Iran’s military operations.
Iranian drones executed a coordinated strike on a shared military facility in Erbil on Wednesday evening. Brigadier Guy Foden, a commander at Britain’s Permanent Joint Headquarters, stated:
“Our team in Erbil is actively supporting the defense of the base. Last night, they intercepted two unmanned aerial vehicles, but several others succeeded in hitting the site.”
American troops sustained injuries during the attack, though the British contingent suffered no casualties, according to The Sun. Lt Gen Nick Perry, head of UK global operations, informed Defence Secretary John Healey that the US casualties were not severe.
“All our personnel remain safe, but the Americans experienced some injuries last night, though nothing critical,” Perry explained during a briefing.
This follows the defense secretary’s remarks that Vladimir Putin’s influence may be shaping Iran’s strategies in the Middle East. During a visit to Northwood military headquarters in Hertfordshire on Thursday, Healey was briefed on developments in the region.
“We are currently examining the drone that targeted Akrotiri’s hangar for any signs of Russian or foreign involvement. It’s no surprise to think Putin’s unseen role could be linked to Iran’s tactics,” Healey noted.
British pilots have logged over 300 operational flight hours since the incident, engaging in multiple drone engagements to protect allies. RAF Typhoon and F-35B jets continue defensive missions over Jordan, Qatar, and the UAE, supported by Voyager refueling operations.
“Overnight, our Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems unit neutralized two drones threatening ground targets in the area,” a statement added.
Iran’s warning to vessels avoiding the Strait of Hormuz has caused a 100% surge in heating oil prices in recent days. Healey acknowledged the growing evidence of Iran’s actions, including reports of mining activity in the strait.
“These are early stages, but the pattern of attacks and the impact on global energy markets are clear. The release of reserve oil helps, but the core issue remains unresolved,” he emphasized.
After Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei issued his first message of retaliation following his father’s death in US-Israeli strikes, the Iranian leader declared:
“We will not hesitate to seek justice for our fallen heroes. The vengeance we plan extends beyond the loss of our great revolutionary leader, encompassing every martyr the enemy causes.”
Despite claims of serious injuries from a recent strike, Khamenei’s message was broadcast by Iranian state television. The leader’s condition remains uncertain, with some reports indicating he may be in a coma.
“The Iran national soccer team is invited to the World Cup, but I doubt it’s wise for them to be there, considering their own safety,” the statement concluded.