The British police are conducting an investigation following claims by pro-Palestinian activists of having breached the security of a Royal Air Force Base and vandalizing two planes with red paint,” reports indicate.
The group behind this act is named Palestine Action. It asserts that two of its members infiltrated RAF Brize Norton on Wednesday, using electric scooters to approach the Voyager jets, employed for air-to-air refueling.
The duo allegedly used repurposed fire extinguishers to spray red paint into the planes’ turbine engines and crowbars to inflict additional damage. The group has released video footage hinting at such actions. They left the base without being apprehended, as per the group’s statement.
Palestine Action accuses the U.K. of being complicit in the issues in Gaza and other Middle Eastern conflicts. Despite publicly criticizing the Israeli government, Britain continues to transfer military cargo, fly surveillance aircraft over Gaza, and refuel US/Israeli fighter jets, according to the group’s statement.
Britain’s Ministry of Defense has verified the incident, strongly denouncing this act of vandalism against Royal Air Force assets. RAF Brize Norton, located 70 miles northwest of London, is recognized for its operational significance in the Middle East, with its aircraft regularly flying to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, Britain’s principal air base for activities in the region.
This development follows earlier reports that the UK has escalated its military presence in Cyprus, dispatching more Typhoon fighter jets and Voyager tankers, amid the Israel-Iran conflict. Iran has warned of potential attacks on U.S., French, and British bases in the region if they assist Israel in countering Iranian strikes.
The Thames Valley Police confirmed receiving a report of unauthorized access and ensuing criminal damage at RAF Brize Norton. Efforts are underway, in collaboration with the base staff and the Ministry of Defense Police, to apprehend the culprits, the department said.
As the authorities continue their pursuit of the perpetrators. This act of vandalism raises important questions about security measures at military installations and the broader implications of such actions. As we await further developments, we’re reminded of the importance of staying informed and vigilant.
