Rubio says US bomber withdrawal from British base not directly linked to suspected Iranian plot

Fairford, United Kingdom. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Monday there was no direct link between the sudden removal of US bombers from RAF Fairford and a suspected Iranian plot at the base last week.

Bomber withdrawal and security concerns

The aircraft had been stationed at RAF Fairford, the preferred European base for US bombers, and had recently been used in US strikes on Iran.

Asked about the B1 bombers, Rubio told reporters: “I wouldn’t just directly tie that to the move that was made.”

“The Department of War is constantly reallocating resources where they need to be,” he added.

Rubio also said on Monday that the US had confidence in the security of all its bases.

A NATO military source said on Monday: “It is still believed that Iran poses an acute threat to US assets in the UK”.

Arrests and Iran’s response

Five British men were arrested near the base last week on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards had previously described the base as a legitimate target.

Much about the incident remains unexplained. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said any plot was likely backed by Iran.

Iran has dismissed accusations of involvement in any plot as baseless. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi wrote on X: “I can confirm Iran’s belief that releasing supposed terrorists working for foreign states really says it all. You’re barking up the wrong tree.”

Fairford’s role in US operations

Fairford, 90 miles (145 km) west of London, is one of the most important bases in Europe for the US and one of only a few suitable for heavy bombers such as the B1. It has played a key role in previous US campaigns in the Middle East, although US bombers are not permanently stationed there.

During the current conflict, the US had permission to use Fairford only for strikes on Iranian missile sites attacking ships in the Strait of Hormuz, described as defensive strikes. London had refused permission for the US to use British bases for offensive strikes on Iran.