US pulls B‑1 bombers from UK base after suspected Iran‑linked terror plot

The United States has withdrawn all of its B‑1 bomber aircraft that were stationed at RAF Fairford in western England. The aircraft, which had been deployed to the base for operations against Iranian missile sites, have been returned to their home stations in the United States, according to a Pentagon spokesperson.

The removal follows the arrest of several men in the United Kingdom on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts targeting the air base. British authorities said the suspects were involved in a plot to attack the facility, prompting heightened security measures.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that the United Kingdom has “strong indications” that Iran was involved in the alleged scheme. Tehran has rejected the accusation as unfounded and has summoned the British ambassador in Iran to protest the claims.

A Pentagon spokesman said that, while operational security prevented real‑time confirmation of the movement of assets, the United States can now confirm that all bombers deployed to RAF Fairford have been redeployed to the United States. The statement emphasized that the decision was taken in response to the security concerns raised by the investigation.

President Donald Trump said the individuals behind the suspected plot had intended to cause significant damage, though he did not provide further details. Iran’s foreign ministry dismissed the allegations as baseless and reiterated that it had no involvement in any plot against the British air base.