Pro-Palestinian activists damaged two military aircraft at Britain’s largest airbase on Friday, accusing the UK of aiding Israeli war operations in Gaza by refueling and transporting allied fighter jets.

RAF Planes Targeted in Direct Action

Two members of Palestine Action broke into RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire and damaged two Voyager aircraft, according to a statement from the group. They reportedly poured red paint into the aircraft engines and used crowbars to inflict further damage.

The group shared video footage of the action online, calling it a protest against British military support for Israel. “Britain isn’t just complicit, it’s an active participant in the Gaza genocide,” the group said.

Government Responds with Condemnation

Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack, labeling it “disgraceful vandalism” in a post on X. The Ministry of Defence announced that it was investigating the breach alongside police and reviewing base security nationwide.

“This is a serious national security matter,” a government spokesperson said, adding that support for military personnel “is not optional—it is our duty.”

Political Backdrop: Gaza War and UK’s Role

Since the start of the Gaza conflict, which began after the October 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel, over 55,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to the Gaza health ministry. The UK has publicly condemned Israeli actions, but continues logistical and intelligence cooperation, including aerial surveillance and in-flight refueling.

Palestine Action has repeatedly targeted defense firms and logistics companies linked to Israel across the UK.