British fighter jets have been involved in repelling an Iranian drone strike against Israel, Sky News first reported citing defense sources.
The Ministry of Defense in London has not made clear the nature of Britain's involvement in repelling the Iranian attack, but Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said additional British fighter jets and aerial refueling aircraft have been deployed to the Middle East to bolster Operation Shader, which is British operation against ISIS in Iraq and Syria.
"In addition, the aircraft will intercept air attacks within the scope of our existing missions," added Mr. Shapps.
Earlier, information had been transmitted about the take-off of at least one Voyager-type aerial refueling aircraft from the British base in Akrotiri.
The first report of British participation in repelling the Iranian attack was made by Israel's Channel 12, which spoke of the downing of a drone by American and British aircraft over the Iraq-Syria border.
In the recent past Voyager aircraft have taken off from Akrotiri accompanying British Typhoon fighters, e.g. in the strikes against Houthi positions in Yemen.
Mr Shapps in his statement condemned the "senseless" airstrikes by Iran, saying they benefit no one and further undermine regional security.
The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rishi Sunak, had earlier condemned Iran's "reckless" attack in the "strictest terms".
"Iran shows once again that it is intent on wreaking havoc in its own backyard. The UK will continue to defend the security of Israel and all our regional partners, including Jordan and Iraq," Mr Sunack added, adding that an urgent effort was being made with Britain's allies to stabilize the situation, prevent further escalation and more bloodshed.
For his part, Foreign Secretary David Cameron also called Iran's attacks on Israel "reckless", warning that they will only further inflame tensions in the Middle East.
"The UK is calling on the Iranian regime to stop this serious escalation, which is in nobody's interests," concluded Lord Cameron.
Source: KYPE (Athanassios Gavos)
