The BBC has been granted access to military bases in Iraq where British troops are working alongside American forces during the conflict in the region.
The United States has announced an extended but fragile ceasefire in the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran. But before the ceasefire, up to 28 drones were launched from the base every day.
An RAF aviation expert at the base told the BBC’s defense correspondent Jonathan Beale: “It’s really difficult to hear the weapons of destruction going off all around you.”
British and American troops had been working together at this military base to fight the Islamic State (IS) long before the war with Iran began.
Sharp differences over the Iran war have certainly strained transatlantic relations. However, on this base the two are still joined at the hip.
Defense Minister Al Khans said close cooperation between the two militaries was “a message that should be promoted.” Since the war began, “We’ve helped Americans get out of harm’s way. We’ve helped protect them, and they’ve helped protect us.” Although Carnes stressed that British troops were “on the defensive”.
Air Force Commander Sir Harvey Smyth said he had met commanders of US bases who had “been effusive in praising” the British military. “I believe our relationship is stronger than ever, and this operation has brought us even closer,” he said.
But that was certainly not reflected in the language between Washington and Westminster.
