UK denies war status after attack on Bases (15:30)
In response to escalating tensions with Iran, the UK recently deployed extra F-35 fighter jets, radars, counter-drone systems, and air defences to Akrotiri as precautionary measures. Families living on the base have been temporarily relocated to nearby accommodation.
Middle East Minister Hamish Falconer confirmed that Iranian ballistic missiles pose a serious threat to the region and stressed the importance of neutralising these launchers in the face of “reckless attacks.”
The UK government continues to monitor the situation closely, balancing defensive measures with diplomatic caution.
Since shortly after midnight on Sunday, Cyprus has been placed on high alert following a suspected Iran-linked drone strike on the British RAF base at Akrotiri. Around 22:00 GMT, an unmanned Iranian-made Shahed-style drone struck the runway area at RAF Akrotiri, causing limited damage but no casualties, according to UK and Cypriot authorities.
The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed the base was responding to a suspected one-way drone attack, the first on RAF Akrotiri since the 1980s, and elevated force-protection measures. Non-essential personnel and family members have been relocated or advised to take shelter as precautions.
In the hours after the initial impact, sirens sounded again at the base, and two additional unmanned drones were intercepted before they could reach the sovereign base area, state officials said.
The Civil Defence was activated, and emergency shelters opened in the Limassol area as local authorities coordinated support for residents affected by precautionary evacuations and heightened security.
Paphos Airport was also put on alert after a suspected drone was detected nearby, prompting evacuation instructions and further raising tensions on the island.
Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides reiterated that Cyprus will not participate in military operations, stressing the situation is being monitored closely with international and local partners.
In response to growing threats, Greece has announced the deployment of two frigates and F-16 aircraft to Cyprus in support of regional security, and regular air defence patrols remain active.
The strike follows the broader US-Israel offensive against Iran’s leadership and military infrastructure, which Iran has retaliated against with missiles and drones across the region.
Also read: Cyprus air defence readiness at full alert, no new incidents
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