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 drone attack targeted a Special Forces base, resulting in injuries to American troops, as concerns grew over possible Russian backing for Iran’s military strategies.
The strike occurred in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan region, during the early hours of Wednesday. Brigadier Guy Foden, a UK military commander, disclosed that British personnel stationed there were actively involved in safeguarding the facility.
“Last night, they successfully intercepted two UAVs approaching the camp, though several drones managed to land within its perimeter,” Foden stated.
According to The Sun, the incident left American soldiers with non-life-threatening injuries, while the UK forces sustained no casualties. Lt Gen Nick Perry, the UK’s global operations commander, confirmed the situation during a briefing with Defence Secretary John Healey.
Healey’s recent visit to Northwood military headquarters in Hertfordshire included updates on regional operations. Perry noted there were clear indications of a connection between Russia and Iran, including the use of drones, as reported by Russian intelligence.
While analyzing the drone that damaged a hangar at Akrotiri, Healey emphasized ongoing investigations to identify any foreign components. He added: “Putin’s influence behind Iranian tactics is hardly unexpected, especially considering his current economic gains from high oil prices.”
Following the US-Israeli strikes, Iran issued warnings to ships traversing the Strait of Hormuz, causing heating oil prices to nearly double in a week. Healey acknowledged the growing reports of Iranian mining activities in the strait, highlighting its global economic implications.
Meanwhile, RAF Typhoon and F-35B jets have maintained defensive patrols over Jordan, Qatar, and the UAE, supported by Voyager refueling missions. British pilots have logged over 300 operational hours, neutralizing multiple drones in the area.
Overnight, a British Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems unit downed two drones threatening civilian lives. The attack follows Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei’s first message of retaliation after his father’s death in US-Israeli strikes.
“We will not hesitate to avenge the martyrs’ blood,” Khamenei declared in a written statement. “Each victim of the enemy is a separate case deserving of retribution.”
Despite reports of his injuries, including a lost leg and possible coma, Khamenei’s message was broadcast via state television. The incident has sparked discussions about Iran’s readiness to engage in further conflicts, with some questioning their presence at the World Cup.
