UK deploys warship to Cyprus after Iran drone strike
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer ordered deployment of HMS Dragon destroyer and counter-drone helicopters to Cyprus following Iranian drone strike on RAF Akrotiri base. 130,000 British nationals registered in Gulf states will be evacuated via charter flights from Oman. Starmer confirmed defensive operations against Iran, resisting offensive participation despite US strikes killing Iranian leaders. HMS Dragon, recently refitted, carries 200 personnel with advanced air-defence systems. Opposition criticizes delay in deployment. France reportedly considering sending air-defence systems to region.