‘Terrible error!’ – fury as UK set to be left without one warship in Middle East | World | News
The Royal Navy has been warned it has made a “terrible mistake” after it was revealed none of its ships will be deployed to the Middle East. This comes amid turbulence in the region, where concerns remain about the situation in Iran and possible US attacks on the country, as well as the conflict in Syria.
HMS Middleton could reportedly return to the UK from its base in Bahrain in March. Following the retirement of frigate HMS Lancaster last month, the Navy is said to have no plans to replace the 41-year-old mine countermeasures ship, its only ship in the Middle East. Former First Sea Lord Admiral Lord West expressed concern about the move.
he said Telegram: “It is extremely unfortunate that our Naval Forces have become unable to maintain a frigate or offshore patrol ship based in the Gulf, as it is a region experiencing constant difficulties and distress.
“It’s a terrible mistake that it didn’t happen. We need to establish a base there as quickly as possible, but the problem is that our Navy is diminished.”
According to the newspaper, the return of HMS Middleton to its home waters will mean that Britain will not have a combat presence in the Gulf for the first time in 46 years.
The move will lead to greater concerns about Britain’s ability to project naval power. Many experts have long warned that the Senior Service is too small, even though the Navy has some new ships on the horizon later this decade.
Defense analyst Francis Tusa told The Telegraph that “the idea of a global Britain is almost over”, adding that with the size of the Navy “that is simply not possible”.
Shadow Defense Secretary James Cartlidge also expressed concern, accusing the Government of “failing to actually fund defence”.
The Ministry of Defense (MoD) has insisted the UK remains committed to the Middle East despite the pending departure of HMS Middleton.
A spokesman said: “We remain committed to promoting stability and peace in the Middle East and maintaining our presence in the region.
“The UK is playing a leading role in combating ISIS and seeking to stamp out any resurgence of their dangerous and violent ideology in the region, including successful airstrikes earlier this month and Operation Kipion, the UK’s long-standing naval presence in the Gulf.
“We work closely with our allies and partners to improve regional security and strengthen defense cooperation.”
