Deployment of RAF Typhoon squadron to Qatar signals willingness to protect country from a counterattack
Britain is unlikely to assist the US in an attack on Iran but a deployment of RAF Typhoons to Qatar last week signals a willingness to help regional allies if Tehran tries to widen the conflict in retaliation.
A first strike on Iran is unlikely be in line with the UK’s interpretation of international law, but British forces could become involved if there is a need to help Qatar or other regional allies in self-defence.
Last week, the RAF’s 12 Squadron, a joint Typhoon unit with the Qatari air force, moved from Lincolnshire to the Gulf state, while the US built up a substantial military presence for a possible attack against the Iranian regime.
British sources said the squadron’s forward deployment was “at the request of the Qataris” – to help protect the country, home to the largest US airbase in the region, from any drone and missile counterattack.
