The Islamic State group is reportedly calling for attacks against U.S. military bases and killing airmen in Britain in retaliation for U.S.-led airstrikes in Syria and Iraq.
A group called the "Islamic State hacking division" has called for attacks against Royal Air Force Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, RAF Menwith Hill and RAF Alconbury, The Sunday Times reported Aug. 16.
The group also posted personal information online — including addresses, phone numbers and email addresses — of more than 1,400 people, including 16 Air Force personnel who have served at RAF bases, the newspaper reported. Up to four of those Air Force personnel may still be in Britain or Europe.
"Those identified on the list are warned: 'We are extracting confidential data and passing on your personal information to the soldiers of the khilafah [caliphate] who soon, with the permission of Allah, will strike at your necks in your own lands!' " according to the newspaper.
In July, British authorities arrested two men, one of which is accused of planning attacks on U.S. military personnel in Britain. The Sunday Times reported that the man allegedly hoped to run over a U.S. service member and then kill him with a knife.
The 48th Fighter Wing has not raised the force protection condition level at RAF Lakenheath, said wing spokesman Tech. Sgt. Eric Burks. He did not say if any of the other bases reportedly targeted have taken extra security precautions.
"Commanders at all levels continually assess threats alongside host nation counterparts and take appropriate measures based on recent assessments, as was the case with the 48 FW," Burks said in an email to Air Force Times. "We are dedicated to making every possible effort to ensure the safety and security of service members, civilians, their families, and our facilities."
Burks also did not say if the Air Force personnel whose personal information was reportedly posted online have been notified.
"We are encouraging all airmen to ensure privacy settings on online/social media forums are adjusted to limit the amount of available personal information, such as removing details like physical location, email addresses and phone numbers," he said. "A strong emphasis is always placed on ensuring the appropriate OPSEC and force protection training occurs and procedures are in place."
