UK police evacuate homes near airbase used by US

What the report says

British police evacuated homes in Whelford, Gloucestershire, on Sunday after arresting several men on suspicion of explosives-related offences near RAF Fairford, an airbase used by the US military. Gloucestershire Police said a specialist military explosives disposal team was examining a number of vehicles and that a major incident had been declared. Residents from several properties were moved to a nearby leisure centre while armed officers restricted access around the base.

A Reuters reporter at the scene saw armed police at the main gate and equipment positioned near entry points, with roughly 30 emergency vehicles in the area, including police, ambulances and fire engines. Police later said they believed the situation was contained, but they did not say whether explosives had been found or explain what led to the arrests. The US Air Force said it was aware of the reports and that its units in Britain remained vigilant, without commenting on security details.

The location has added sensitivity because RAF Fairford has been used by US forces in past operations, including reported strike missions during the US-Israel war on Iran. However, authorities did not say the incident was linked to Iran or that the airbase was specifically targeted. The case highlights continuing security concerns around military sites and the response protocols used when suspicious activity is reported.