British services bases across the Middle East have been placed on high alert for potential Iranian drone attacks following US bombings of Iranian nuclear facilities, the Daily Mail reported on June 23. The heightened state of readiness, detailed by correspondent Tom Cotterill, comes amid fears of reprisals after American forces conducted an early-morning raid on Sunday targeting Tehran's nuclear infrastructure, sparking concerns of a potential slide into all-out war.
Defence Secretary John Healey stated that the protection of UK personnel deployed overseas is at its "highest level." Security measures were significantly increased following the US raid, with troops now vigilant against drone attacks, as well as missile and rocket bombardments. Warnings have also reportedly been issued over the potential use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) by militants near some facilities.
While the Ministry of Defence has not specified all at-risk locations, RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, a key staging ground housing 14 jets and considered of critical importance to Britain's operations in the Middle East, is understood to be among those with enhanced security. This escalation occurs against a backdrop of broader security concerns for British military establishments. Recent incidents highlighted this tension, including the arrest of a man in Cyprus on Saturday suspected of spying on an RAF HQ for Iran and a security breach at RAF Brize Norton on Friday where pro-Palestinian protesters vandalized two jets.
Writing on X, Mr. Healey reiterated the government's commitment: "The safety of UK personnel and bases is my top priority. Force protection is at its highest level, and we deployed additional jets this week." The international community is closely watching the volatile situation for any signs of further escalation.