European countries to deploy military assets to Cyprus after Iranian attack on UK base

Italy, Spain, France, and the Netherlands are set to send naval forces to Cyprus in the next few days, according to Defence Minister Guido Crosetto of Italy, who spoke in parliament on Thursday. An Iranian-made drone attacked a British Royal Air Force base in Cyprus on Monday, which is part of the larger air conflict involving the US and Israel against Iran. The French military announced that it would permit US aircraft to use some of its bases in the Middle East during this ongoing situation, emphasizing their role in protecting Gulf partners. Following the drone strike on the British base, Spain will dispatch its most advanced frigate to safeguard Cyprus, as noted by the Spanish defence ministry. The US has exerted strong pressure on Spain for its previous refusal to let Washington use its military bases. The frigate “Cristobal Colon” will join the French aircraft carrier “Charles de Gaulle” and ships from the Greek navy to provide security and assist in evacuating civilians, according to the ministry. Italy also plans to send naval resources to Cyprus soon and provide air defense support to Gulf nations affected by Iranian attacks. In a discussion with RTL 102.5 radio, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated, “We are focusing on defense, particularly air defense, not only because of our friendly relations but also to protect tens of thousands of Italians and around 2,000 Italian soldiers in the region.” Meanwhile, UK Defence Minister John Healey arrived in Cyprus on Thursday, as reported by a defence source. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Tuesday that the UK would send “helicopters with counter-drone capabilities” and the warship HMS Dragon to Cyprus as part of ongoing “defensive operations” in the area.