DayofPal– British Defence Secretary John Healey has launched a full investigation after two activists vandalized warplanes at the Royal Air Force (RAF) Brize Norton base in Oxfordshire.
The activists were protesting the UK’s involvement in the war in Gaza, which they described as a genocide.
The protest, carried out by members of the group Palestine Action, took place early Friday morning. The activists entered RAF Brize Norton, the UK’s largest airbase, and sprayed red paint on the engines of two Voyager aircraft.
They also reportedly used crowbars to inflict further damage. A video posted on X showed the activists riding scooters across the base and placing a Palestinian flag on the runway.
Defence Secretary Healey condemned the incident, calling it “totally unacceptable,” and announced a full review of security at all UK military bases.
“I’m deeply concerned by what happened and have ordered a full investigation and a wider security review,” he said on social media.
The Ministry of Defence described the act as “criminal damage” and confirmed that it is working with police as the investigation continues. Authorities stated that the incident did not disrupt flight operations or military planning.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer also denounced the action, labeling it a “disgraceful act of sabotage.” His office said a broader security review across UK defence facilities is now underway.
RAF Brize Norton plays a crucial role in the UK’s military operations, serving as a hub for air-to-air refueling and military transport. It also supports flights to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, the UK’s main base in the Middle East.
Palestine Action said the protest was a response to the UK’s continued military support for Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza. In a statement, the group accused the British government of “fueling genocide and war crimes,” despite public criticism of Israel’s actions.
The activists claim that the UK continues to supply arms to Israel, operate surveillance flights over Gaza, and refuel US and Israeli aircraft. “Britain isn’t just complicit,” the group said. “It’s actively participating in the genocide in Gaza.”
This incident comes amid growing public protests across the UK and Europe over Western support for Israel. Since October 2023, more than 55,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed in Gaza, with over 130,000 injured.
Most of the casualties are women and children. Thousands remain missing, and many more have been displaced. The region is also facing a severe hunger crisis due to Israel’s blockade.
Palestine Action has previously targeted British arms companies and military contractors linked to Israel. The group argues that direct action is necessary to stop the UK’s involvement in what it calls crimes against humanity.
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