UK bases in the Middle East are on heightened alert for drone strikes after the US bombing of Iran.

John Healey, the Defence Secretary, said UK Armed Forces protection was at its “highest level” amid fears that the US action could escalate into a wider conflict.

It is understood UK bases across the Middle East have increased security since the US action in the early hours of Sunday morning, with personnel on high alert for drone attacks as well as conventional rockets and missiles.

It comes amid increasing fears over the security of British bases at home and overseas.

On Saturday, a British man was arrested in Cyprus on suspicion of spying on an RAF base on behalf of Iran.

On Friday, two pro-Palestinian protesters breached security at RAF Brize Norton and vandalised two planes.