Mar 2 • 09:42 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Guardian

RAF airbase in Cyprus hit as Cooper defends decision to allow US to use UK bases for Iran strikes – UK politics live

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the UK is not being dragged into another conflict in the Middle East while confirming a strike on the RAF's Akrotiri base in Cyprus, which resulted in no casualties.

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has addressed concerns regarding the UK's involvement in escalating tensions with Iran, asserting that the country is not being pulled into another conflict similar to Iraq. Responding to questions on Sky News, she emphasized the government's commitment to a diplomatic approach rather than military intervention, dismissing claims that the UK would support strikes initiated by the US in the region during the past weekend.

Cooper confirmed that the Akrotiri military base in Cyprus was indeed struck but refrained from providing further details about the incident. According to statements from both Cypriot officials and the Ministry of Defence, the attack resulted in no casualties and only minor damage. This statement aims to assure the public and reinforce the UK's stance on not escalating military involvement while still supporting US defense actions in the Gulf area.

During her appearances on various morning news shows, Cooper defended the UK's decision to permit the US to utilize British military installations for defensive purposes concerning the Gulf's geopolitical situation. She reiterated that the primary aim of such cooperation remains defensive and strategic in nature, emphasizing the UK's commitment to avoiding a deepened military role in the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

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