The Cypriot government has criticised the UK’s handling of drone attacks on RAF Akrotiri ahead of Defence Secretary John Healey’s visit. Cypriot High Commissioner to the UK, Dr Kyriacos Kouros, told BBC Newsnight that locals felt “disappointed” by the lack of information shared after the strikes on Sunday night.
The attacks followed US-Israel strikes on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliations. UK Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Alex Norris, said the government remains “resolute” in protecting national interests and has spent “significant” time strengthening defensive systems in the eastern Mediterranean.
On Tuesday, the UK announced the deployment of the air defence-capable warship HMS Dragon to Cyprus. Officials later confirmed the vessel would not sail until next week. Some critics have questioned why the Royal Navy did not send a ship sooner, given the US military build-up in the region and President Donald Trump’s public threats toward Iran.
US President Trump called it “shocking” that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer initially denied US forces access to UK bases for strikes. The UK later permitted their use for defensive operations targeting Iranian missile sites.
A chartered flight meant to evacuate British nationals from the region was delayed in Oman due to technical issues. Norris said the government was “looking to get [the flight] gone today.”
Healey confirmed that the Shahed-type drone caused “minimal damage” at RAF Akrotiri with no casualties. Other drones targeting the base were intercepted, and the MoD temporarily relocated family members to alternative accommodation. Western officials stated the drone did not originate from Iran, though they did not disclose its source.
Kouros said Cypriots feel “scared” and hoped for more robust protection. He added, “Let’s say the people are disappointed… I’d love to see more.” Norris highlighted that defensive systems deployed in the eastern Mediterranean had a “really significant impact” in recent days and reiterated the UK’s commitment to working closely with Cyprus.
The MoD stated HMS Dragon will reinforce existing RAF Typhoons, F-35B jets, ground-based counter-drone teams, radar systems, and Voyager refuelling aircraft. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for stronger UK action, saying, “Once our bases had been attacked, we became part of this… We need to do what we can to stop these attacks.”
