Security tightened at US air base in England amid Iran tensions

Security has been significantly increased at a US air base in southwest England in recent days, with roadblocks and armed police preventing access and emergency vehicles stationed nearby, a witness reported on Sunday.

A spokesperson for the US Air Force said they were aware of the current reporting but would not discuss specific force protection measures. "The 501st Combat Support Wing and our fellow UK-based Wings remain vigilant and will take appropriate actions to ensure the safety and security of our US service members, civilians, contractors, and their families," the spokesperson said. "We constantly assess a variety of factors that determine what measures we institute or modify to protect our installations, our people and their families."

The heightened security follows a warning in July from Iran's Revolutionary Guards, which cautioned against allowing US bombers to fly from Fairford. In response, Britain said its armed forces were ready to protect the country from any attack.

Fairford, located in Gloucestershire, has previously been used to launch operations against Iran during the Middle East conflict.