Residents near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire have voiced unease after the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared that any military installation used to attack Iranian territory could be considered a legitimate target in the ongoing conflict with the US.
The statement followed reports that an American bombing mission was launched on Tuesday, 21 July, potentially from RAF Fairford, where the US military has operated since March. This presence began after the UK government authorised the use of British bases for defensive strikes against Iranian missile facilities.
While it remains uncertain whether the US B1 bomber conducted its mission directly from Fairford or via a stopover, the announcement has raised alarms locally about the safety risks posed by the base’s involvement in the conflict. The UK government has responded by reaffirming its readiness to defend itself 24/7, but concerns persist among residents.
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“How much danger are we in, and how likely are our homes to be destroyed in pursuance of this conflict? We deserve some transparency,” wrote one local resident, reflecting widespread anxiety.
South Cotswolds MP Dr Roz Savage has stepped in, writing to Secretary of State for Defence Wes Streeting to seek reassurances for her constituents. In her letter, she emphasised the importance of clear communication regarding safety measures and the sharing of pertinent information with local representatives and communities.
Dr Savage also confirmed ongoing coordination between Gloucestershire Police and the Ministry of Defence to enhance security around RAF Fairford, with neighbourhood policing teams set to increase reassurance patrols.
Public reaction to the MP’s outreach included calls to cease US military operations from the base, citing escalating risks and questioning the UK’s involvement in the conflict. Former councillor Derek Walters described the war as unlawful and criticised government support for it.
Despite vocal public concerns, a spokesperson for Fairford Town Council stated that the community had not directly expressed worries about the base being a target.
Dr Savage plans to visit Fairford to engage with residents personally, providing an opportunity for dialogue.
On 25 July, peace groups including CND and Fairford Action held a protest at RAF Fairford’s gates, urging the government to end US military use of the base and warning of the dangers involved. CND General Secretary Sophie Bolt criticised the ongoing military action, advocating for diplomatic solutions over conflict escalation.
The Ministry of Defence maintains that the UK’s approach is guided by a commitment to defend national interests and allies while operating within international law, and stresses that it aims to avoid deeper entanglement in the broader conflict.
As tensions remain high, the situation at RAF Fairford continues to draw significant attention from both local communities and national authorities, highlighting the complex intersection of international conflict and domestic security.