The US fears terrorist attacks after thwarting a plot at a British military facility
The United States has withdrawn approximately 12 B-1 strategic bombers from the RAF Fairford airbase in the United Kingdom. The decision was prompted by concerns regarding potential terrorist attacks against the facility. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine (Едуард Ткач) citing The Wall Street Journal, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
The redeployment of aircraft signals a shift in US tactics, as the facility near London was previously used as a staging ground for potential strikes against Iran. The Pentagon confirmed the return of the bombers to the US, asserting that the operational capacity to strike targets remains intact even with the aircraft based on American soil.
Preventing an attack on the base
The decision to withdraw the bombers followed the arrest of six individuals suspected of plotting a sabotage operation at RAF Fairford. According to American and British officials, the attack was successfully averted last Sunday.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated there are “serious grounds to believe” Iran played a role in the incident. Despite the gravity of the accusations, British authorities have released the suspects on bail, causing friction between Washington and London.
The Iranian connection in the plot
US officials claim that a unit of the IRGC recruited British citizens to carry out an attack on the bombers and kill personnel at the base. The plot reportedly included a diversionary maneuver in the surrounding area.
Meanwhile, some British officials remain skeptical regarding the level of sophistication and preparation of the revealed threat. US President Donald Trump criticized the decision to release the suspects on bail, expressing his belief that a more rigorous approach toward those detained was necessary.
Diplomatic escalation
The situation surrounding the base occurs amidst the broader cooling of relations between Washington and Tehran. Previously, the White House rejected peace initiatives proposed by the Iranian delegation on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.
Concurrently, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered the expulsion of the Iranian delegation from US territory. Following the deadlocked negotiations, the Trump administration is signaling its readiness for further escalation.
Photo: RBC-Ukraine
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