UK Defence Secretary John Healey has accused Russia of directly influencing Iran's military tactics in Iraq. In response, the Kremlin has accused London of complicity in terrorist attacks on Russian infrastructure.

Accusations of Russian Support for Iran

John Healey claims that Iranian drone operators are using combat methods developed by Russia on the Ukrainian front during attacks on bases in Iraq.

Russian Allegations of Terrorism

Moscow has officially held Great Britain and Ukraine responsible for attacks on a Russian border city and an ammunition factory.

Withdrawal of Italian Troops

Due to the escalation of the threat, Italy decided to temporarily withdraw its military personnel from a base in Iraqi Kurdistan.

Threat to the Strait of Hormuz

Great Britain is considering steps to protect trade routes from Iranian actions, which affect oil prices and the financing of the Russian war.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey has accused Russia of directly influencing Iran's military tactics, pointing to Vladimir Putin's "hidden hand" behind drone attacks on Western military bases in Iraq. According to the defence chief, Iranian drone pilots are now using combat methods developed and tested by Russians on the Ukrainian front. These comments came after a series of strikes on facilities in Erbil and Baghdad, which injured American soldiers. Although British personnel were not injured, the escalation of the threat prompted Italy to decide to temporarily withdraw its forces from a base in Iraqi Kurdistan.

Russia reacted sharply to these reports, levelling serious accusations on 12 March 2026 against London and Kyiv for carrying out a joint "terrorist attack" on a Russian border city. The Kremlin also held Great Britain directly responsible for a deadly strike on a key ammunition factory on Russian territory. Diplomatic tension between the powers has reached a critical point, with Russian propaganda increasingly pointing to Great Britain as the main adversary in the ongoing conflict. The British government, facing growing maritime disruptions, is now analysing available military scenarios aimed at securing oil transport routes in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. . „Putin's hidden hand lies behind Iran's military tactics” — John Healey via The Guardian

The tightening strategic cooperation between Moscow and Tehran is causing deep concern among Western intelligence agencies, which are observing an unprecedented transfer of technology and military knowledge. Experts indicate that this alliance goes beyond simple equipment deliveries, evolving towards joint operational planning targeting Western interests in the Middle East. Military cooperation between Russia and Iran accelerated sharply after 2022, when Tehran became a key supplier of kamikaze drones for the Russian army. In exchange for support in Ukraine, Russia began offering Iran advanced missile systems and support in modernising its air force, which significantly impacted the balance of power in the Persian Gulf region.

Escalation of UK-Russia Tension (March 2026): 12 March 2026 — Kremlin Accusations; 12 March 2026 — Attack on Factory; 13 March 2026 — Healey's Statement; 13 March 2026 — Italy's Reaction

Mentioned People

  • John Healey — British politician who has served as Secretary of State for Defence since July 2024
  • Władimir Putin — Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012