A suspected drone strike has hit a British military base in Akrotiri, Cyprus, marking the first apparent impact of the current Mideast conflict on European soil. British Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed that ballistic missiles were fired toward Cyprus late Sunday, but reported no casualties.
Cyrus officials confirmed an "incident" involving an "unmanned drone" at the British air base on the island's southern coast, which caused "limited damage." The exact type of drone, its origin, and the extent of damage remain under investigation. RAF Akrotiri serves as Britain's primary air base for Middle East operations and is a British sovereign territory.
This incident follows British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's announcement that the UK will support the US in its actions against Iran, though Britain will not participate directly in strikes. The UK has agreed to allow US forces to utilize British bases for attacks on Iranian missile sites.
Earlier, leaders from Germany, France, and Britain jointly condemned Iranian attacks on regional nations and urged Tehran to cease its military actions and re-engage in talks. Meanwhile, Iran's foreign minister suggested that its military units are currently operating independently, acting on prior general instructions.