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 revealed plans to deploy additional British troops and air defence systems to the Middle East, aiming to bolster defensive capabilities against Iranian attacks. This move will raise the total number of UK personnel involved in safeguarding the Gulf region and Cyprus to approximately 1,000. During a recent visit to Gulf nations, Healey confirmed the expansion of air defence teams to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait, while extending the use of Typhoon jets in Qatar.
Healey emphasized the importance of UK military support to Gulf partners, stating, “My message to Gulf partners is: Britain’s best will help you defend your skies.” Despite the UK’s focus on defensive action, US President Donald Trump has criticized the nation’s approach, arguing it is insufficient. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer clarified earlier this week that the UK will not commit ground forces to Iran, asserting, “This is not our war and we’re not going to get drawn into it.”
“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.”
Trump’s remarks came after the UK extended its Typhoon jet deployment to Qatar, a decision linked to the government’s plan to maintain the key shipping lane open. Healey noted that allies are exploring various strategies to secure the Strait of Hormuz, including international collaboration and the use of a British Navy vessel to support autonomous drones in clearing potential mines. The UK’s participation has also involved the deployment of the Sky Sabre missile system to Saudi Arabia, according to the ministry.
In Kuwait, the damage to a power and desalination plant in an attack earlier this week underscored the regional threat. The UK has already stationed the Lightweight Multirole Missile launcher in Bahrain and the Rapid Sentry system in Kuwait, with experts assisting in their integration into local defenses. Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to protecting its interests and allies without direct involvement in combat operations.
Healey also addressed concerns raised by the Trump administration, highlighting the close military ties between the UK and the US. “We’re two nations whose militaries are bound closely together, that work closely together, whose intelligence services share uniquely the recognition of the threats around the world and the action that free nations must take.”