NICOSIA, June 16 (Xinhua) -- British military authorities in Cyprus on Monday refused to comment on reports that Britain had deployed additional Typhoon fighter jets and refueling aircraft to the Middle East, following a spike in regional tensions between Israel and Iran.
A spokesperson for the Royal Air Force base at Akrotiri, near the southern Cypriot city of Limassol, said they were "unable to confirm or deny" whether new aircraft had arrived either in Cyprus or elsewhere in the region.
Britain maintains a significant military presence on the island, including operations at RAF Akrotiri, and also has access to bases in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. Over the weekend, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that more aircraft would be sent to bolster British capabilities across the region.
Speaking to reporters, British Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves described the move as "precautionary," stressing that Britain has historically supported Israel during periods of missile attacks.
Despite the increased military activity, British officials have firmly denied any direct involvement of RAF Akrotiri or other British bases in the ongoing Israel-Iran confrontation.
Meanwhile, Iranian state media reported that Tehran has issued warnings to Britain, the United States, and France, declaring that their regional military bases and naval assets would be considered legitimate targets if they attempted to block Iranian strikes on Israel.
A similar situation occurred last October, when the British Defense Ministry confirmed that Typhoon jets and a refueling aircraft were launched from Akrotiri to help contain hostilities and prevent further escalation. ■
