The United Kingdom says there are “strong indications” that Iran played a role in a security incident at RAF Fairford, a British airbase used by the United States military.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Wednesday that the matter remained under investigation but that authorities believed Iran had been involved.
The incident began over the weekend when five men were arrested near the Gloucestershire airbase after police received reports of suspicious activity involving three vans. The men, who are British nationals in their 20s from London, were arrested on suspicion of terrorism and explosives offences and were later released on bail while investigations continue.
Counter-terrorism police have said searches of the vehicles found a quantity of petrol but no explosives. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and whether the men were acting independently or had links to a foreign state.
Burnham said Britain was working closely with the United States on the investigation and stressed that he would not disclose further details while the inquiry was ongoing. He said his statement about Iran was not made lightly, describing the investigation as complex and serious.
The United States has also suggested foreign involvement. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the suspected plot “clearly involved” a foreign actor, while President Donald Trump had earlier suggested the suspects might have links to Iran. Iran has denied involvement in the incident.
RAF Fairford has particular significance because it has been used by U.S. aircraft during military operations against Iran. Iranian-linked statements have previously warned that facilities used for attacks on Iranian territory could be considered legitimate targets, adding to concerns surrounding security at the base.
The investigation remains ongoing, and British authorities have not publicly released evidence establishing exactly how Iran may have been involved. Officials are continuing to examine the suspects, vehicles and possible connections to determine the nature and purpose of the alleged plot.
