The UK Prime Minister revealed plans to send fighter jets and helicopters to Qatar and Cyprus to reinforce defense for citizens and allies amid the ongoing war in the Middle East.
On 5 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, announced that his country is preparing to send an additional four Typhoon fighter jets to join the British squadron in Qatar to strengthen defense amid Iranian attacks targeting several countries in the Middle East.
Additionally, Sir Starmer stated that Wildcat helicopters, capable of countering drones, will arrive in Cyprus on Friday (6 Mar) and that the Royal Navy ship HMS Dragon is being deployed to the Mediterranean Sea.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the UK has allowed the United States to use its bases solely to "conduct defensive operations," and that "we will maintain this shield to protect British citizens and our allies in the region."
Sir Starmer added that the government is working daily to strengthen this shield further and to evacuate people from the Arabian Gulf region. The first flight to bring British citizens home has already departed, with more than 4,000 people safely returned.
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Source:bbc