London, Oct 06 (V7N)- The United States has withdrawn its B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford in Britain after President Donald Trump said a threat linked to Iran prompted the move.
Trump told reporters on Monday that the aircraft were removed after US authorities received information indicating that keeping them at the base could pose a security risk. Asked whether the threat was connected to Iran, Trump said it was.
The B-1 bombers had been stationed at RAF Fairford, about 145 kilometers west of London, and had been used in recent US military operations against Iran. Around a dozen aircraft were reportedly redeployed to their home bases in the United States.
The withdrawal came after British police arrested several people in connection with a suspected plot involving the airbase. Five British men were initially arrested near Fairford on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts and were later released on bail. A sixth person, a 22-year-old British man, was arrested in London on October 6 as the investigation continued.
British authorities have said the investigation remains ongoing. Police previously reported that no explosive devices were found during searches, although petrol was recovered from vehicles linked to the investigation.
US Vice President JD Vance said the bombers were moved as a precaution because of concerns about potential Iranian threats. However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he would not directly link the aircraft movement to the suspected plot, noting that the Pentagon routinely redeploys military assets.
The differing explanations come as security concerns remain heightened around US military facilities in Europe. A NATO source said Iran continues to pose a significant threat to US military assets in Britain, according to Reuters.
Iran has denied involvement in the suspected plot. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has described the allegations as baseless.
The United States' decision to withdraw the bombers does not prevent them from being used in future operations, as the aircraft can conduct long-range missions from bases in the US with aerial refueling.
The investigation into the suspected plot and any possible foreign involvement remains ongoing, while British and US authorities continue to assess security risks surrounding RAF Fairford.
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