RAF fighters shot down Iranian drones launched against Israel, PM says
The Royal Air Force engaged and destroyed hostile airborne threats in the Middle East during an attack launched by Iran against Israel.
As part of Operation Shader, several jets and air refuelling tankers were dispatched to the region.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed that RAF jets had shot down "a number" of Israel-bound Iranian drones over the Iraq-Syria border area amid the unprecedented attack.
Mr Sunak said: "Last night Iran launched a barrage of missiles and attack drones across the Middle East towards Israel.
"I want to pay tribute to the bravery and professionalism of our pilots who are flying into the face of danger to protect civilians.
"This was a dangerous and unnecessary escalation which I have condemned in the strongest terms.
"Thanks to an international co-ordinated effort, which the United Kingdom participated in, almost all of these missiles were intercepted, saving lives, not just in Israel but in neighbouring countries in Jordan as well.
"It is clear that Iran is determined to sow discontent and destabilise the region, its own backyard. That's very clear from its action.
"If it had been successful, the fallout for regional stability would be hard to overstate. We stand by the security of Israel."
The Prime Minister praised the professional and bravery of the RAF pilots responsible for defending Israel and saving lives.
Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said 99% of more than 300 drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles had been shot down outside the country's borders with aircraft intercepting more than 10 cruise missiles.
He said a few missiles had reached Israel with a seven-year-old girl critically injured in the south of the country and light damage to an army base.
"I strongly condemn the senseless airborne attack that Iran has launched on Israel. It serves no benefit other than to further undermine regional security," said Defence Secretary Grant Shapps.
"We continue to work with Israel and partners in the region to prevent further escalation. Peace and stability are in everyone's interest, and I urge Iran to immediately end all forms of destabilising behaviour.
"In response to escalation in the region and in partnership with our allies, the Prime Minister and I have authorised the deployment of additional Royal Air Force assets."
He went on: "The RAF jets and air refuelling tankers will bolster our existing Operation Shader – the UK's existing counter-Daesh operation in Iraq and Syria.
"In addition, these jets will intercept any airborne attacks within range of our existing missions, as required."
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