Iran has warned it could strike US military installations across Europe if Washington launches an assault on the country, with a map identifying 31 potential targets. The threat comes as American aircraft are moved from a Suffolk base following an earlier Iranian warning.
General Rezaei's Warning
General Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said any US attack on Iran would prompt reprisals against American military facilities, "particularly in European countries." He cautioned Washington against committing what he called a "mistake," suggesting the possibility of a broader conflict.
General Rezaei stated: "If the Americans make a mistake and attack us, we will not limit ourselves to targeting nearby bases; we will also target their distant bases, particularly in European countries. We may target some islands that they believe our missiles cannot reach."
US Bases in the UK
The US maintains 16 major Air Force installations and facilities throughout the UK, with RAF Lakenheath representing the largest. Situated near Brandon and Lakenheath in Suffolk, the installation supports more than 5,000 active-duty military personnel alongside thousands of civilian employees and family members. It houses several fighter jet squadrons comprising F-35s and F-15Es.
The threat emerged a day after American military commanders relocated fuel tanker aircraft from RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk following an Iranian threat. The aircraft comprised nine Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers and three Ospreys, according to flight-tracking data.
Security Response
Officials regard the threat as credible, and the security level at RAF Mildenhall and RAF Lakenheath has been elevated, according to reports in the US. Downing Street maintained that British air bases are secure and their protection remains a "top priority" following the relocation of US aircraft from RAF Mildenhall.
The precise nature of the threat remains unknown and is still being deliberated amongst US officials, according to the Wall Street Journal. When questioned about discussions with the US regarding aircraft safety, the Prime Minister's official spokesman stated: "As you know, the US is one of our top security partners. We're in constant communication with them, sharing intelligence and accessing threats together. Aircraft and other assets move regularly according to operational requirements."
The development came hours after President Donald Trump declared the war in Iran was "militarily over." During an unexpected press conference, he said: "Iran militarily is effectively over. We're just keeping it the status quo."
