Security incident at RAF Fairford, UK

According to a Reuters witness, armed policemen blocked access to the main gate of the base. Safety equipment was placed along the access roads and residents of a nearby town were transported to a recreation center.

In the town of Fairford alone, located near the base, approximately 30 emergency vehicles were deployed, including police cars, ambulances and fire trucks.

"A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area following the announcement of a serious incident. This follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offenses under the Explosives Act," Gloucestershire Police said.

"A specialized military explosives disposal team is currently checking several vehicles," it added.

The police assessed that the situation had already been brought under control.

Base used by the American Air Force

The British government has allowed the United States to use RAF Fairford to conduct strikes against Iranian missile sites from which ships are attacked in the Strait of Hormuz - reminds Reuters.

In July, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that any base used for such operations could become a legitimate target for attack.

A spokesman for the US Air Force did not comment on the specific security measures used at the base.

"The 501st Combat Support Wing and other U.S. wings stationed in the United Kingdom remain vigilant and will take appropriate actions to ensure the safety and security of American soldiers, civilian employees, contractors and their families," a U.S. Air Force official said.

“We continually evaluate the many factors that determine what measures we implement or change to protect our installations, staff and their families,” he added.

Concerns about hybrid threats

In July, Britain said its armed forces were ready to defend the country against a possible attack, after Iran's Revolutionary Guard urged London not to allow American bombers to take off from Fairford.