Security incident at US-run air base almost certainly directed by Iran, UK prime minister says

In late September 2023, RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire was the site of a security incident involving suspicious vehicles and threats. This prompted Prime Minister Andy Burnham to announce that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were "almost certainly" behind the attempted attack. In response, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband summoned the Iranian ambassador to the UK to reiterate Britain’s stance against such activities on its soil. The UK also imposed sanctions on two Iranians involved in espionage and criminal networks linked to Iran, including asset freezes and travel bans.

The incident led to a temporary withdrawal of 12 B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford amid concerns over potential drone attacks on US bases used for operations against Iran. Seven men were arrested but later released on bail; they have not been charged with any crime. The UK has since reinforced security measures at its military bases, underscoring the growing threat to defense sites and cooperation with allies to maintain security.