U.S. Pulls B-1 Bombers From RAF Fairford Amid Iranian Threat Warnings
U.S. military moves bombers from UK base after new intelligence on Iran-linked terror plot.
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The U.S. military has abruptly withdrawn all 12 B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford in Britain following new intelligence warnings about an Iran-backed terror plot targeting the base, according to The New York Times. The move, described as highly unusual, came after British authorities arrested five men near the base in connection with a suspected terror plot.
Urgent Withdrawal Amid Security Concerns
The withdrawal occurred just a week after the arrests, with officials citing urgent new intelligence that prompted the rapid relocation of the bombers. Some aircraft and crews left while aerial refueling operations were still in progress, with at least three bombers landing at their home base in South Dakota by Sunday.
The Pentagon’s European Command confirmed the redeployment but did not comment on the specific threat warnings. The command emphasized that U.S. bombers routinely operate globally to support military readiness.
Officials Downplay Direct Links to Recent Arrests
Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned against directly linking the withdrawal to the recent arrests, stating that the military regularly reallocates resources. He praised British cooperation in the investigation and affirmed the U.S. confidence in the security of its bases.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham indicated that there were “strong indications” Iran was involved in the incident, though he stressed the investigation remains ongoing. Iran has denied any involvement, with its embassy in London condemning the speculation.
Broader Context of the Plot and Regional Tensions
The suspected Iran-linked plot has led to six arrests, including a dual British-Iranian national arrested in London. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Israel had warned Britain of an Iranian-sponsored attack, though no specific target was identified.
RAF Fairford, a key U.S. military installation, has been used in recent operations targeting Iran. The base’s strategic importance underscores the heightened security concerns and the gravity of the situation.
Source: Daily Wire
