The UK’s Defense Secretary, John Healey, has branded opposition politicians, including Nigel Farage and Kemi Badenoch, unpatriotic for allegedly seeking to turn President Donald Trump against the British government. This follows criticism from Reform UK and the Conservatives of the UK’s refusal to let the U.S. launch offensive strikes on Iran from British bases. Healey said the politicians have been undermining the UK’s interests, especially on the Chagos Islands, just to "curry favor" with the Trump administration.
Regarding military activities, Healey visited RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus after a drone strike hit a hangar containing British spy planes. The UK avoided serious damage, but this has created tension with Cyprus over a lack of prior warning. The UK has decided to send 400 more troops, four more Typhoons, and two attack helicopters to the region in response to the tension. However, Healey was evasive on whether the UK trusted the endgame of the U.S. on its war in Iran.