Britain blames hidden Russian influence for Iranian drone strikes on Iraq base
Defence Secretary John Healey stated that Russia’s "hidden hands" are likely aiding Iran's tactics in the Middle East, specifically citing lessons learned from Moscow regarding modern warfare and potential support against Donald Trump following a recent escalation involving US personnel injuries abroad. This diplomatic warning came immediately after Iranian-linked drone swarms struck an Iraqi base housing British troops on Thursday morning; UK forces subsequently engaged to shoot down two of the incoming drones during retaliatory action at their facility in Erbil, northern Iraq.
Key Points
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1UK Defence Secretary John Healey stated that President Vladimir Putin may be using a "hidden hand" to support Iran in the Middle East conflict.
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2Iranian-linked drones attacked and damaged bases used by British troops near Erbil, northern Iraq on Thursday morning.
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3He suggested Russia's influence extends beyond direct combat involvement into shaping Iranian military tactics through drone usage.
Developments
Perspectives
British troops shot down two Iranian drones after their base came under attack.
— [Mar 12, 18:32] British troops in Iraq shoot down Iranian drones after base attacked (Independent.co.uk)Defence Secretary John Healey stated that Vladimir Putin's 'hidden hand' may be helping Iran respond to its ongoing war against Donald Trump and Israel.
— [Mar 12, 17:04] Putin's 'Hidden Hand' Likely Aiding Iran In Its War Against Donald Trump, UK Says (Huffingtonpost.co.uk)'Putinova nevidljiva ruka stoji za Irana'
— (N1info.hr) [Mar 12, 16:35] Upozorenje iz Britanije: Putinova 'nevidljiva ruku' stoji iza Irana'Putin's hidden hands might be influencing Iran tactics in the Middle East conflict', citing that Iranian use of drones was learned from Russia.
— [Mar 12, 16:05] How Putin's 'hidden hands' could be influencing Iran's war tactics (Independent.co.uk)'Putinova skrivena ruka stoji za iranskih napada dronovima'
— (Vecernji.hr) [Mar 12, 15:04] Britanski ministar obrane