CYPRUS March 3, 2026 – UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has firmly stated that British military bases in Cyprus are not being used by United States bombers, following a series of drone incidents targeting RAF Akrotiri.
In an address to Parliament on Monday, Starmer clarified the UK’s limited support for US operations amid escalating Middle East tensions. “The use of British bases is limited to the agreed defensive purposes – we are not joining the US and Israeli offensive strikes,” he said. He stressed that the bases in Cyprus specifically are not involved in any US bomber activity and that the UK decision to allow limited base access was strictly for collective self-defence and the protection of British lives, in accordance with international law.
The remarks follow reports that Cypriot authorities intercepted two drones heading towards RAF Akrotiri on Monday. This comes after an Iranian drone struck the base late Sunday night, causing minimal damage to the runway and no casualties. Sirens were heard in the area, prompting security alerts and the temporary relocation of non-essential personnel and families from the base as a precaution.
BBC Breakfast featured live on-the-ground reporting from correspondent Jessica Parker outside the RAF Akrotiri base this morning, bringing the Prime Minister’s assurances directly to viewers as events unfolded.
The incidents are part of Iran’s retaliatory actions after US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. Starmer noted that the initial drone attack on Akrotiri was assessed to have been launched before the UK’s announcement on base usage. UK forces have carried out defensive actions elsewhere in the region, including RAF Typhoons downing Iranian drones, but the government insists it is not participating in offensive operations or seeking regime change.
Cypriot officials have expressed concern over communication and information sharing regarding the threats, with plans to make formal representations to the UK. The US embassy in Cyprus also issued warnings about possible drone activity in the Paphos region, leading to flight disruptions including cancellations by EasyJet.
The developments highlight the strategic importance of the UK’s Sovereign Base Areas in Cyprus while underscoring the delicate balance Britain is maintaining in the conflict — providing defensive support to allies without direct involvement in offensive strikes.
This is a developing story. Life News Agency will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more details emerge.
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