UK Expands Middle East Military Presence Amid Tensions

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced the deployment of additional British military assets, including fighter jets and refueling aircraft, to the Middle East as contingency support amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. The move is intended to protect British interests and military bases in the region, with the RAF base in Cyprus playing a central operational role. Starmer emphasized the importance of de-escalation and confirmed ongoing discussions with UK allies and regional leaders. While he declined to specify if British aircraft would participate in American defenses for Israel, he stated that all actions remain under ongoing review. The deployments are part of the UK's existing commitments, such as Operation Shader. The announcement comes amid recent Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and Iran's retaliatory attacks on Israeli cities, increasing global concern over regional stability.