Two pro-Palestinian activists have infiltrated RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, in a serious security breach, and vandalised two military aircraft with red paint. The activists, affiliated with the campaign group Palestine Action, claim the act was to protest the UK’s involvement in Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
Footage shared online shows the intruders entering the base at night using electric scooters. One of them sprayed red paint — symbolising Palestinian blood — directly into the engines of a Voyager aircraft using modified fire extinguishers, while another used a crowbar to damage the plane.
The group claimed the refuelling aircraft were rendered “out of service” and left a Palestinian flag at the scene before fleeing undetected.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the act as “disgraceful” and “an act of vandalism.” He stressed the importance of supporting the Armed Forces, saying they represent the best of British values through their courage and sacrifice.
The Ministry of Defence has also condemned the incident and is cooperating with Thames Valley Police in the investigation. A full security review of UK military bases is expected to follow.
RAF Brize Norton is the UK’s primary strategic air transport and refuelling hub, including operations to and from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus. The RAF has flown surveillance missions over Gaza from that location.
Palestine Action accused the UK of being complicit in war crimes, citing ongoing military support to Israel and the US. Similar actions have been taken by the group before, including vandalism of a US military aircraft in Ireland earlier this year.
The UK government has recently faced criticism for increasing military export licences to Israel despite calls for an arms embargo. Campaigners continue to demand stronger sanctions and a halt to military cooperation with Israel.