US pulls B-1 bombers from UK air base after suspected terror plot

The United States has abruptly withdrawn its fleet of B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford in southern England following the discovery of a suspected terror plot. The move comes one week after five men were arrested near the base on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts.

The Pentagon has redeployed all U.S. B-1 bombers previously stationed at RAF Fairford back to their home stations in the United States. According to CNBC, the withdrawal followed an investigation that uncovered a planned terror attack. Al Jazeera reported that the move was made due to concerns over a potential attack, citing a suspected explosives plot discovered last month.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that the plot was likely backed by Iran. UK and American officials have specifically claimed Iranian involvement in the incident involving the five British men arrested near the facility. The Japan Times reported that a dozen B-1 bombers were stationed at the base, while CNBC noted that dozens of B-52 and B-1 aircraft have operated there since the start of the Strait of Hormuz conflict.

The aircraft at RAF Fairford have been used recently for U.S. strikes against Iran. Former NATO operations director David Des Roches explained that the alleged plot forced the aircraft's removal. This development occurs as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively shut, with Iran demanding the lifting of sanctions and an end to the U.S. naval blockade before the waterway is reopened.

In related regional developments, more tankers have been struck in waters near Iran and Oman. Meanwhile, the Saudi-backed government in Yemen has announced a nationwide offensive to retake territory currently held by Iran-backed Houthi forces.

Background

The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed since a conflict began in late February. RAF Fairford has been used by the U.S. to launch strikes on Iran throughout the duration of the conflict.