FOREIGN OFFICE WARNS BRITONS OF MIDDLE EAST TRAVEL DISRUPTION

The Foreign Office warned that “the risk of sudden escalation is high” in the Middle East. It updated its guidance on 27 October. The guidance urged British nationals to prepare for possible flight cancellations and other travel disruption. Three of the UK’s four nuclear deterrent submarines were understood to be at sea at the same time. The reason for their simultaneous deployment remains unclear.

At least one submarine is believed to be carrying nuclear warheads while conducting a routine patrol. An expert suggested that a second vessel could be preparing to take over patrol duties. The expert said a third vessel could be undergoing sea trials. An unnamed source described the presence of three submarines at sea together as “unusual”. Neither account established why all three vessels were at sea.

HMS Victorious, the fourth Trident submarine, remains at Devonport naval base for maintenance. The Royal Navy’s submarine service has faced persistent difficulties keeping vessels available. A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: “Our nuclear deterrent is the cornerstone of our national security, protecting the UK and our NATO allies every moment of every day.” The spokesperson added: “We remain the only European ally to commit its nuclear deterrent to the defence of NATO.”