A peaceful protest is due to take place outside RAF Fairford this weekend, with campaigners calling for an end to military escalation involving Iran.
The “Hands off Iran – No to War” demonstration is scheduled for 1pm on Saturday 7th March and is expected to see up to 50 protesters gather near the base to demand an immediate halt to UK-supported military action in Iran.
The demonstration follows a series of military strikes launched in late February by the US and Israel against targets in Iran. The protest has been supported by the anti-war group Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND).
Organisers say the vigil is intended to be peaceful and will highlight concerns about the humanitarian and geopolitical effects of the conflict. Activists claim the attacks have caused significant civilian casualties, with the conflict affecting several countries in the region.
A key focus of the protest is the role of UK-based military facilities. RAF Fairford, located in Gloucestershire, is operated by the Royal Air Force but frequently used by the United States Air Force.
The picture at the top of the page shows a B52 bomber on a previous deployment to RAF Fairford.
The UK government has previously maintained that bases such as RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia are not being used to launch bombing missions against Iran. However, critics argue that permitting logistical support still makes Britain complicit in the wider military campaign.
Police say they are aware of the planned gathering and will be present to ensure the protest takes place safely.
A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Constabulary said officers are working alongside the Ministry of Defence Police and will engage with those attending.
They added that a “proportionate and lawful police response” will be in place to help keep people safe, minimise disruption and prevent crime or disorder during the event.
Organisers say the vigil is open to anyone who wishes to demonstrate peacefully against war and call for diplomatic solutions to the growing crisis.
