Why the U.S. Bomber Withdrawal From a U.K. Air Base Is Significant
A report by the New York Times said U.S. commanders had received new threats about an Iran-backed plot against RAF Fairford, citing two U.S. officials. TIME has been unable to independently verify these reports.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday dismissed the idea that the removal of U.S. bombers was directly connected to the foiled plot. He reiterated the U.S.’ stance that it’s “not unusual to see rotations happen” and said he has “confidence” in the security of U.S. bases, adding that the British “couldn’t be more cooperative” in the ongoing investigation regarding RAF Fairford.
U.K. and U.S. officials suspect Iranian involvement in RAF Fairford plot
Both U.K. and U.S. officials have voiced suspicion of Iranian involvement in the suspected terror plot.
Burnham on Sept. 30 said the U.K. believes Iran was likely involved in the incident.“There are strong indications that Iran played a part in what happened over the weekend at RAF Fairford, but of course it remains an ongoing, complex, and serious police investigation,” he said, adding that British forces were “working closely” with U.S. counterparts.
