British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that British fighter jets intercepted “a number of drones” launched from Iran towards Israel. The UK, along with the US and other allies, aided in countering Iran’s unprecedented attack, marking its first direct strike on Israeli territory.
Although additional RAF jets were deployed over Iraq and Syria rather than Israel, the Ministry of Defence clarified. Sunak condemned Iran’s “reckless attack” and is set to join G7 leaders to discuss further actions.
Sunak emphasized the potential destabilization of the region had Iran’s attack on Israel succeeded, without specifying the exact number of drones shot down by British forces.
RAF Typhoons intercepted attack drones in Syrian and Iraqi airspace as part of Operation Shader against the Islamic State group. While the Ministry of Defence didn’t disclose the exact number of RAF jets deployed, it affirmed readiness to repel any airborne threats within the region.
Iran launched hundreds of aerial drones and cruise missiles at Israel, with the majority intercepted outside Israeli airspace, assisted by allies such as the US and Jordan.
Sunak underscored Iran’s determination to sow discontent and destabilize the region, pledging continued UK support for Israel’s security and calling for de-escalation with allied efforts.
The attacks followed Iran’s vow to retaliate over a strike on its consulate in Syria, which Tehran attributed to Israel. Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron demanded Tehran’s de-escalation and urged the release of the seized cargo ship MSC Aries passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer backed measures to restore calm and prevent wider regional conflict, condemning Iran’s attacks on Israel. Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper called for the Prime Minister’s address in Parliament due to concerns about potential escalation.
Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood affirmed Britain’s support for Israel’s defense against state-on-state attacks but urged caution to avoid escalating the situation into a wider regional conflict involving Israel’s ally, the United States.