The United States abruptly withdrew 12 B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford in Britain Sunday over urgent concerns about a potentially complex drone attack ordered by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing US and European officials.
The planned attack was part of a broader alleged Iranian plot to target the aircraft and kill personnel at the base, including American pilots, according to the Journal.
Vice President JD Vance said the bombers were moved “out of an abundance of caution trying to protect our guys,” without commenting on details of the alleged plot.
The Journal reported that a branch of the IRGC had recruited British nationals for a multi-stage operation that included a diversion near the base. US military officials in Europe had also been briefed in late September about a possible vehicle-borne explosive device.
British authorities have said there are strong indications of an Iran link but have not provided evidence publicly. Five men arrested near RAF Fairford last week and a sixth dual British-Iranian national arrested later were released on bail and have not been charged.
US President Donald Trump said Monday that unspecified threats prompted the move. “There were some threats, and rather than tempting the enemy, we’ll capture the enemy and beat the enemy. But why should we leave them there?” he told reporters.
Asked whether concerns that Iran had brought combat drones into Britain prompted the withdrawal, Trump said: “I can’t tell you that. But if they did, they’ll suffer greatly.”
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