US pulls B-1 bombers from UK base amid Iran threat

• The Pentagon confirmed that all US bombers deployed at RAF Fairford in the UK have returned to their home stations in the United States following security concerns.
• The B-1 bombers remain ready to conduct precision strikes from US territory, as Washington continues to signal readiness for further military action against Iran.

The Pentagon has withdrawn all US bombers from RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom and returned them to bases in the United States amid security concerns over a suspected plot targeting the facility.

The redeployment involved roughly 12 B-1B Lancer bombers that had been stationed at the Gloucestershire air base and used in US military operations against Iran.

The move follows the arrest of six people in the UK over an alleged plot targeting RAF Fairford. British authorities have investigated possible links to Iran, while Tehran has denied involvement in the alleged plot.

The Pentagon confirmed the withdrawal, saying operational security had prevented it from disclosing the movements in real time. It added that US bomber forces remain prepared to conduct precision global strike operations from the continental United States.

The B-1B is capable of carrying out long-range strikes, allowing the US military to maintain operational options even after removing the aircraft from the UK base.

The withdrawal comes as the administration of President Donald Trump continues to leave open the possibility of further military action against Iran.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the administration was pursuing economic and diplomatic measures while remaining prepared for military scenarios. “There’s no guarantees in conflict,” Wright said in a CBS interview.

The latest move comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran, with US officials continuing to discuss military and diplomatic options as the conflict and wider regional tensions persist.