More UK troops to be sent to Middle East, defence secretary announces

More UK troops to be sent to Middle East, defence secretary announces

Defence Secretary John Healey has confirmed the addition of more UK military personnel and advanced air defence systems to the Middle East, aimed at bolstering regional defences against potential Iranian strikes. This move raises the overall count of UK forces stationed in the Gulf and Cyprus to approximately 1,000, with teams and equipment deployed to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar. Healey emphasized the commitment to supporting Gulf nations, stating, “Britain’s best will help you defend your skies,” during his recent visit to the region.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reiterated the UK’s focus on defensive operations, clarifying that the nation would not send ground troops into Iran. “This is not our war and we’re not going to get drawn into it,” he said, addressing concerns about escalating conflict. The government, however, remains engaged in protecting its strategic interests and allies through aerial and land-based measures.

During his trip to Qatar, Healey highlighted the Gulf countries’ appreciation for UK contributions, calling them a “cornerstone” of regional security. He also noted Iran’s ongoing expansion of attacks, with the conflict expected to persist for several weeks. Qatar’s officials had previously warned of the risk to the entire region from strikes targeting civilian infrastructure, a concern that gained urgency after a power and desalination facility in Kuwait was damaged in an attack earlier this week.

“All of those countries that can’t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you: Number 1, buy from the U.S., we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT,” said President Trump on his social media platform Truth Social. “You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself.”

Healey underscored the necessity of international cooperation to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime route. He mentioned that military planners are now stationed at US headquarters, and a British Navy vessel will assist in deploying autonomous drones to clear mines if needed. Despite Trump’s public frustration over the UK’s reluctance to join the initial strikes against Iran, Healey defended the nation’s approach, stressing the close military ties with the US.

The UK has already placed air defence systems in Bahrain and Kuwait, including the Lightweight Multirole Missile launcher in Bahrain and the Rapid Sentry system in Kuwait. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance regional resilience against Iran’s growing threat. Meanwhile, the Royal Air Force’s joint UK-Qatari Typhoon squadron, which began operations in January, will now see an increase in the number of jets deployed to Qatar.