UK Defence Secretary John Healey has ordered an urgent investigation and a review of the security system at the country’s military bases following an incident at RAF Brize Norton in central England.
Pro-Palestinian activists from the group Palestine Action reportedly infiltrated the base and damaged two Airbus Voyager military aircraft using repurposed fire extinguishers filled with red paint and metal crowbars. Healey made the announcement in a statement on the X platform, emphasizing that such actions are “completely unacceptable.”
I am deeply concerned by what happened, and I have ordered an investigation and a broader review of security across our bases, the minister stated.
Healey also underlined the critical role of the damaged aircraft in maintaining international security and stability:
This action does nothing to help Gaza, nor does it support our efforts to bring peace and stability to the Middle East, he added.
According to Palestine Action, its activists entered the RAF base in Oxfordshire on Friday, June 20, undetected and left without being apprehended. The group stated that the action was a protest against UK arms supplies to Israel.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the incident, calling the activists’ actions “disgraceful.” The breach has sparked widespread discussion in British society and political circles, particularly regarding concerns about the security of strategically important military facilities.
