Special forces base struck by swarm of drones amid fears Putin is helping Iran
Iranian Drones Target SAS Base Amid Alleged Russian Support
A coordinated drone assault targeted a joint Special Forces base in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan region, on Wednesday night, injuring several American troops. The attack sparked concerns over Vladimir Putin’s potential role in aiding Iran’s military strategies.
“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 successfully downed two UAVs, but a number of drones still managed to reach the facility.”
According to The Sun, British forces sustained no casualties, while American soldiers were wounded. Lt Gen Nick Perry, overseeing UK global operations, informed Defence Secretary John Healey during a briefing that the injuries were not life-threatening.
The incident follows claims that Putin’s influence is shaping Iran’s tactics in the Middle East. During a visit to Northwood military headquarters in Hertfordshire on Thursday, Healey noted evidence of a growing connection between Russia and Iran, including the use of drones by Tehran.
UK Air Patrols and Strategic Concerns
Brigadier Guy Foden revealed that the UK had conducted air combat patrols over Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. RAF jets continue to defend Cypriot interests alongside European allies, with ongoing defensive operations in the region.
Healey emphasized that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz has escalated, with Iran warning ships to avoid the waterway. This has led to a sharp rise in heating oil prices over the past week. The UK is evaluating whether to join patrols to address the crisis, though Healey acknowledged the early stages of the response.
Supreme Leader’s Vengeance Statement
Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a message of retaliation after his father was killed in US-Israeli strikes. The statement, released via Iranian state television, asserted: “I assure everyone that we will not hesitate to avenge the blood of your martyrs. The revenge we are considering extends beyond the martyrdom of our leader; every life lost to the enemy is a separate cause for retaliation.”
Despite reports of Khamenei losing a leg and suffering severe abdominal injuries in the attack, some sources suggest he is in a coma. The statement comes as Iran intensifies its strategic moves, with its military escalating threats against regional adversaries.
RAF Typhoon and F-35B jets have completed over 300 operational flying hours, engaging multiple drones to protect allies and partners. A British Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems unit also neutralized two drones overnight, preventing potential casualties in the area.
