British counter-terrorism police are investigating a security alert at RAF Fairford, the US-used air base in Gloucestershire in southwest England. British media reported that people have been arrested on suspicion of explosives-related offences, and that security at the base has been significantly stepped up. Roadblocks have been set up, armed police deployed and emergency vehicles, including ambulances and fire engines, mobilised. The situation is similar in the area around the base. Police have cordoned off the area and evacuated homes, with residents taken to a nearby leisure centre, while a British Army bomb disposal team is examining vehicles one by one.
The US Air Force has not officially given details of the alert level, and British authorities have not yet confirmed whether the arrests are linked to the military base. Gloucestershire Police have, however, described the incident as "major".
Threats from Iran's Revolutionary Guards
RAF Fairford is one of the most important facilities used by US air forces in Britain. The British government has allowed the United States to use the base for operations against Iranian missile sites that threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, and US B-1B Lancer strategic bombers are stationed there. British analysts note that the case carries particular weight because of threats made in July by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, who warned Britain not to allow US bombers to operate from Fairford.
Source: CNA
