Two pro-Palestinian activists from the group Palestine Action infiltrated the Royal Air Force (RAF) base at Brize Norton in Oxfordshire on Friday, damaging military aircraft in a bold protest against Britain’s role in the Gaza conflict.

According to a statement from the group, the activists gained access to the base and targeted two Voyager aircraft — planes primarily used for refuelling and military transport. They reportedly poured red paint into the engines and used crowbars to further damage the planes. A video of the incident was shared on X (formerly Twitter), showing red paint being sprayed across the aircraft.

“Despite publicly condemning the Israeli government, Britain continues to send military cargo, fly spy planes over Gaza and refuel US/Israeli fighter jets,” Palestine Action said. “Britain isn’t just complicit — it’s an active participant in the Gaza genocide and war crimes across the Middle East.”

The group added that they also defaced the runway with red paint and left behind a Palestinian flag.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the act as “disgraceful vandalism,” while the Ministry of Defence defended the armed forces, calling them “the very best of Britain.”

“Our Armed Forces put their lives on the line for us,” the ministry said in a statement. “It is our responsibility to support those who defend us.”

Law enforcement and the Ministry of Defence have launched a full investigation into the breach. Meanwhile, Palestine Action — known for its direct actions against British companies linked to the Israeli military — said this operation was a protest against what it views as Britain’s enabling role in the ongoing war in Gaza.

Melissa Enoch

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