Police in the United Kingdom declared a significant security incident on Sunday near a British airbase utilized by U.S. military forces for operations against Iran.

Authorities in Gloucestershire, located in the southwest of England, announced the evacuation of several residences in Whelford, around two miles from RAF Fairford, a prominent military installation. Local inhabitants were advised to move to a nearby leisure center for their safety.

Law enforcement officials have apprehended several individuals suspected of offenses related to explosives. Nonetheless, the police assured the public that the situation remains controlled. Explosive experts from the British Army are currently inspecting a number of vehicles in connection with the case.

The U.K. granted permission to the U.S. in early March to employ RAF Fairford for defensive actions against Iran. Residents in the vicinity of the base have noted their homes quivering as heavy U.S. bombers departed from the site regularly.

RAF Fairford has been an operational base for various U.S. bomber types, such as the B-1s and B-52s.

In June, Iran labeled U.K. bases, from which the U.S. directed operations against Iran, as “legitimate targets,” accusing the U.K. of being an “accomplice” in U.S. military campaigns. In response, a U.K. government representative stated that the nation remained “ready 24/7 to defend itself.”

This article covers a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.