Europe is gradually being pulled into the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, even as it avoids direct combat. The focus for now is on protecting military bases and evacuating citizens. A drone has already damaged a U.K. base in Cyprus, which holds the European Union's rotating presidency. Some countries are tightening security at airports and rail stations. Britain, France, and Germany say they work with the United States to blunt Iranian attacks, but are refusing to join the war. European governments also worry about protecting shipping routes. France is sending more warships for the EU’s Red Sea naval operation. But evacuating tens of thousands of stranded European citizens is the top priority.
