First Minister John Swinney is seeking a meeting with the United Kingdom government over the use of Prestwick Airport by the United States military, after evidence emerged that aircraft stopping at the airport were involved in supporting airstrikes against Iran. He has asked for clarity that planes passing through the Scottish government-owned airport were not part of offensive operations and said he would consider a ban if they were.

Flight records show that three United States Air Force refuelling tankers stopped at Prestwick before deploying to the Middle East, where they have since flown multiple missions linked to the joint United States and Israeli campaign known as Operation Epic Fury. Defence analysts say such aircraft play a crucial role by extending the range and endurance of strike jets, potentially supporting both American and Israeli operations.

Prestwick, purchased by the Scottish government in 2013, earns significant revenue from refuelling services, with the United States Department of Defence spending millions of pounds there in recent years. The Scottish Greens have urged ministers to act, arguing that if restrictions were considered for Israeli aircraft, the same standards should apply to American planes. The Scottish government said it is awaiting clarification from the United Kingdom government before making any decision.