The British Counter-Terrorism Service took over the investigation after a security alert was issued at the U.S. air base RAF Fairford, in Gloucestershire, in southwestern England.
According to British media reports, individuals have been arrested on suspicion of offenses related to explosives, while security measures at the base have been significantly stepped up. Among other measures, roadblocks have been set up, armed police officers have been deployed, and emergency vehicles, such as ambulances and fire trucks, have been mobilized.
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The situation is similar in the area surrounding the base. Police have cordoned off the area and evacuated homes. Residents have been taken to a nearby recreation center, while a specialized British Army bomb disposal unit is inspecting the vehicles one by one.
Officially, the U.S. Air Force is not providing details on the alert level, while British authorities have not yet confirmed whether the arrests are linked to the military base. However, Gloucestershire Police are describing the incident as a “major incident.”
RAF Fairford is one of the most important facilities used by the U.S. Air Force in Britain. The British government has authorized the United States to use the base for operations against Iranian missile facilities that threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. B-1B Lancer strategic bombers are stationed at the base.
As British analysts note, the issue takes on particular significance due to threats made in July by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, who had warned Britain not to allow U.S. bombers to operate out of Fairford.
Source: CNA
*File photo
