UK ‘ready to defend itself’ after Iran threatens Cotswolds RAF base

Donald Trump deployed a B-1 bomber from RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire for “defensive strikes” on Tehran.

The warning came from Iranian mullah chiefs after a B-1 bomber was sent out from the Gloucestershire airbase for “defensive strikes” on Tehran, a move authorised by President Trump.

Reports state that the aircraft was used to hit Iranian military targets.

Mullah chiefs said: “We warn the British monarchy, which is the main cause of the misfortunes of the people of our region and has a dark record of dividing Islamic countries, widespread massacres in these countries, imposing authoritarian governments, and worst of all, organizing and leading the occupation of Palestine and the creation of the Israeli Nakba, and has participated most in the recent aggressions of the United States and the Zionist regime against Iran, not to burden its case any further.”

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Protest banners outside RAF Fairford (Image: Ben Birchall / PA)

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence said: “Our armed forces are ready to keep the United Kingdom safe from any kind of attacks, whether it’s on our soil or from abroad. The UK stands ready 24/7 to defend itself.

“This includes through operating a layered approach to air and missile defence.

“The UK’s approach to the conflict remains the same – we are committed to defending our people, our interests and our allies, acting in accordance with international law and not getting drawn into the wider conflict.”

This comes after Iran accused the UK government of allowing the US to carry out “unlawful attacks” and “complicity in the crime of aggression and war crimes”.

The government has refused to take part in offensive campaigns against Iran, but it has allowed the United States to launch defensive strikes from air bases in the UK that host US personnel.

Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said this would mean anyone who supports “military aggression against Iran will bear responsibility for the consequences and repercussions of its decision”.

Andy Burnham has maintained Sir Keir Starmer’s agreement to allow the US to use UK bases, including RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.

US President Donald Trump has carried out 13 consecutive nights of strikes against targets in Iran, indicating potential further escalation.

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A US Air Force B-1 bomber is loaded with bombs at RAF Fairford. (Image: Ben Birchall)

These attacks are being carried out as the US and Iran wrestle for control of the Strait of Hormuz.

A statement read: “The Strait of Hormuz remains open for transit despite recent attacks from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).”

It comes as the Government moved to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) a threat to national security.

Those caught carrying out acts of sabotage on behalf of the group will face life imprisonment.

The threat follows a number of attacks earlier this year, including arson attacks in London, and a double stabbing in Golders Green.

RAF Brize Norton is not currently being used as a US base, though US military aircraft occasionally coordinate or land there for joint transport and refueling suppo