Special forces base struck by swarm of drones amid fears Putin is helping Iran

Special forces base struck by drone swarm as concerns grow over Putin’s possible support for Iran

A U.S. military facility in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan region, faced a drone assault that left several American troops wounded, raising concerns about Russia’s potential role in aiding Iran’s strategic efforts.

Brigadier Guy Foden, a commander at Britain’s Permanent Joint Headquarters, confirmed that personnel stationed in the city were actively assisting in the defense of the base. ‘We’ve shot down two UAVs last night, but multiple drones still hit the site,’ he said during a statement.

‘All our people remain safe, touch wood, but the Americans took some casualties last night, but nothing too serious,’ Lt Gen Nick Perry, the UK’s global operations chief, added during a briefing with Defence Secretary John Healey.

Meanwhile, Mr. Healey highlighted suspicions that Putin’s ‘hidden hands’ might be influencing Iran’s tactics in the Middle East. During a visit to Northwood military headquarters in Hertfordshire, he noted that Russian intelligence had shared evidence linking Moscow to Iran’s use of drones.

Following the US-Israeli strikes that killed Ayatollah Khamenei’s father, the Iranian leader released a message vowing retaliation. ‘We will not refrain from avenging the blood of your martyrs,’ he stated in a written declaration. ‘Every nation member who is slain by the enemy is a separate cause for revenge,’ he emphasized.

The UK’s air force has intensified patrols in the region, with Typhoon and F-35B jets operating over Jordan, Qatar, and the UAE. RAF units have also engaged in multiple drone interceptions, contributing to over 300 operational flight hours since the conflict escalated.

Iran’s warnings to vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz have triggered a surge in heating oil prices, doubling in just one week. Mr. Healey acknowledged the growing threat, stating: ‘The reports of Iran mining the straits are becoming more credible. Commercial ships under attack are now a clear pattern.’

Despite claims of serious injuries to the Supreme Leader, including a lost leg and coma-like state, Iranian state television released his vengeance message, framing it as a declaration of resolve. The attack on his family has intensified tensions, with the UK exploring joint patrols to secure the straits.

• British pilots have executed numerous defensive sorties, downing multiple drones threatening allies in the region.
• RAF refuelling support via Voyager aircraft has bolstered operations over key areas, including Cyprus.
• A Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems unit recently neutralized two drones overnight, safeguarding civilian lives.