US B-1 bombers withdrawn from RAF Fairford amid heightened Iran threat

Twelve B-1 Lancer bombers and supporting aircraft left RAF Fairford on Sunday after U.S. officials described an "abundance of caution" in response to what they said was an elevated threat from Iran. Vice-President JD Vance linked the move to Iran’s long-standing pattern of terrorist activity against the United States and others.

The bombers had been operating from the base for the past seven months, targeting Iranian missile sites. In July, Tehran warned that any nation providing a U.S. facility for such operations could become a "legitimate target."

British authorities did not disclose the specific reason for the withdrawal, but a spokesperson noted a "high tempo of threat from Iran to the UK" and suggested that U.S. assets at the airfield could be on a targeting list.

Iran denied involvement in the events surrounding the base. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States retains confidence in the security of its overseas installations and is working closely with British officials, who he said have been "very cooperative."

The departure was reportedly rushed, with refuelling aircraft still being prepared as crews were ordered to take off. General Sir Richard Barrons, a senior retired British officer, said the decision reflected concerns that modern drones could threaten large aircraft and that relocating the bombers to Texas was the most prudent step.

The incident comes as the United Kingdom continues to host hundreds of American service members at RAF Fairford and other bases, while security reviews are expected to be conducted on both sides of the perimeter fence.