THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
After the US Embassy became aware of five men being arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act near the Royal Air Force base in Fairford, Gloucestershire on Sunday, September 27, 2026, it issued a Security Alert encouraging US citizens to exercise caution and be mindful of personal security. It reminded them that British authorities rate the threat of terrorism in the UK as severe. A statement advised that US-associated facilities, gatherings, and organizations may be at heightened risk.
The State Department’s Travel Advisory rating for the UK & Northern Ireland is also now at Level 2 – “Exercise Increased Caution” – due to a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in the UK. There is also risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland. These groups mainly target police and military.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the incident at RAF Fairford "clearly involves the hands of a foreign actor". On Fox News network's Hannity program he said:
"I have to be careful, there are some things I cannot say on the air for a lot of different reasons. Suffice it to say, that what happened, what almost happened, what could have happened, in the UK over the weekend, is a very serious situation.
"It’s one that clearly involves the hands of a foreign actor.
"I won’t get into great detail about that yet. I do want to thank the authorities in the United Kingdom who have been very co-operative and on top of it.
"I know a lot of people are disturbed by the news that some of these people have been released on bail, some of the people are being investigated. Obviously we’re engaging with them on all of that.
"But suffice it to say, beyond that I would argue that they’ve been very co-operative and very helpful, on something that’s a very serious incident."
US citizens are advised to follow instructions of local authorities for their personal safety and security, and to take the following precautionary actions:
