Two ballistic missiles with the potential to cause significant damage were launched towards Cyprus on Saturday, as confirmed by officials. UK Defence Secretary John Healey stated that the Ministry of Defence does not believe the missiles were specifically aimed at the island but expressed concern over Iran’s escalating attacks, describing them as increasingly indiscriminate and widespread.
Healey criticized the regime in Iran, particularly in light of the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint US-Israeli strikes on Saturday. He emphasized that many people would not mourn Khamenei’s passing, referring to his regime as a “source of evil.”
In an update, Healey revealed that two ballistic missiles were fired towards Cyprus, highlighting the growing risks faced by military personnel and civilians due to Iran’s aggressive behavior. He also mentioned that Iranian strikes had landed dangerously close to British troops in Bahrain, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of the attacks.
Acknowledging the threat posed by Iranian missile commanders, Healey emphasized that British defensive aircraft in the Middle East were prepared to intercept Iranian missiles and drones to safeguard regional stability. He explained that UK aircraft stationed in Qatar and Cyprus were tasked with protecting these locations and neighboring countries by taking down any incoming threats.
Healey reiterated the negative impact of Khamenei’s leadership, condemning Iran for its brutal treatment of its own citizens and its support for terrorism. He emphasized the need for coordinated regional defensive measures to counter the destabilizing actions of the Iranian regime.