The United Kingdom has deployed fighter jets to repel drones launched at Israel from Iran as part of a response to an attack launched overnight. The Royal Air Force (RAF) will intercept any airborne attacks within range of operations in the region. UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, condemned Iran’s “reckless attack,” pledging the UK would “continue to stand up for Israel’s security.” The RAF has flown over Iraq and Syria, not Israel. Jordan also assisted in taking out some Iranian drones, according to security sources cited by Reuters. The US also supported Israel by helping to shoot down “nearly all” of the drones and missiles, the majority of which were intercepted outside of Israel’s airspace, with the help of other countries.
Iran launched dozens of aerial drones and cruise missiles, which were widely anticipated and unprecedented, in response to a strike on its consulate in Syria on 1 April that killed seven IRGC officers, including a senior commander. Iran accuses Israel of carrying out that attack, but Israel has not confirmed or denied involvement. Iran’s attacks risk inflaming tensions and destabilising the region, according to Mr Sunak.
The MoD has not disclosed how many RAF Typhoons were deployed to Syrian and Iraqi airspace, nor confirmed whether any successfully shot down targets. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps condemned “the senseless airborne attack” by Iran and added that he supported Israel’s right to defend itself. The UK continues to support the security of its allies in the region including Jordan and Iraq. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has condemned Iran’s “unacceptable attacks,” while also stating his party supports all measures “designed to restore calm” and prevent a wider regional war.
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