Two suspects linked to an alleged plot targeting RAF Fairford have been re-arrested over claims of assisting Iran. The development raises fresh questions about security at the UK military airbase and the wider concerns surrounding alleged foreign-linked activity on British soil.


Two suspects in RAF Fairford plot re-arrested for 'helping Iran'

Iran's Foreign Ministry strongly condemned British allegations linking Tehran to the alleged security scare at the RAF Fairford air base, describing them as a plot to initiate an Anti-Iran campaign. It criticised the use of words like &nbsp;"highly likely" and "almost certainly" to lend credibility to “baseless accusations” while at the same time avoiding the political and legal responsibility, or the potential consequences of its claims. Iran categorically rejected the allegations, calling the RAF Fairford incident a “false flag”.“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran categorically rejects the baseless accusations levelled against Iran and holds the British government, as well as the designers and perpetrators of this clumsy false-flag operation, responsible for all consequences arising from these fabrications.” Iran accused the UK of being irresponsible, pointing to its “record of fabricating security claims against other countries", which has, in some cases, led to damaging tensions and conflicts in West Asia, is well known.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-russian-diesel-deal-fuel-prices-backlash-1791828042517">Trump defends Russian diesel deal amid bipartisan backlash over fuel prices</a>“The British government cannot evade its political and legal responsibility for its claims and their potential consequences by hiding behind ambiguous language without providing solid evidence and substantiated reasons. Resorting to expressions such as “highly likely” and “almost certainly” to create the impression that attributing the alleged incident to Iran is credible is an obvious attempt to escape accountability for making baseless accusations,” said Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement.UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, following the late September 27 security incident, publicly stated there were "strong indications" that Iran was tied to the plot. &nbsp;On October 12, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham delivered a statement to the House of Commons: “I can confirm our assessment that it is highly likely to have been coordinated in Iran, almost certainly directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards.”

Iran has rejected British allegations linking Tehran to the RAF Fairford security scare, calling the incident a “false flag” and accusing the UK of avoiding accountability using vague phrases like "highly likely" and "almost certainly".

Iran's Foreign Ministry strongly condemned British allegations linking Tehran to the alleged security scare at the RAF Fairford air base, describing them as a plot to initiate an Anti-Iran campaign. It criticised the use of words like "highly likely" and "almost certainly" to lend credibility to “baseless accusations” while at the same time avoiding the political and legal responsibility, or the potential consequences of its claims. Iran categorically rejected the allegations, calling the RAF Fairford incident a “false flag”. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran categorically rejects the baseless accusations levelled against Iran and holds the British government, as well as the designers and perpetrators of this clumsy false-flag operation, responsible for all consequences arising from these fabrications.” Iran accused the UK of being irresponsible, pointing to its “record of fabricating security claims against other countries", which has, in some cases, led to damaging tensions and conflicts in West Asia, is well known. Also Read: Trump defends Russian diesel deal amid bipartisan backlash over fuel prices “The British government cannot evade its political and legal responsibility for its claims and their potential consequences by hiding behind ambiguous language without providing solid evidence and substantiated reasons. Resorting to expressions such as “highly likely” and “almost certainly” to create the impression that attributing the alleged incident to Iran is credible is an obvious attempt to escape accountability for making baseless accusations,” said Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, following the late September 27 security incident, publicly stated there were "strong indications" that Iran was tied to the plot. On October 12, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham delivered a statement to the House of Commons: “I can confirm our assessment that it is highly likely to have been coordinated in Iran, almost certainly directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards.”

Iran has rejected British allegations linking Tehran to the RAF Fairford security scare, calling the incident a “false flag” and accusing the UK of avoiding accountability using vague phrases like "highly likely" and "almost certainly".

Iran calls RAF Fairford security scare a ‘false flag’, rejects UK allegations

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was ‘almost certainly’ behind threats targeting RAF Fairford, marking the strongest attribution of responsibility made by the British government since the incident late last month. Addressing MPs on Monday (October 12), Burnham said the UK would introduce further sanctions against Tehran and the IRGC. However, the incident remains under investigation, with no charges brought against anyone in connection with the episode despite more than two weeks of police inquiries.&nbsp;Speaking in Parliament about the incident at RAF Fairford, Burnham said, “I can confirm our assessment that it is highly likely to have been coordinated in Iran, almost certainly directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards.” Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood also addressed the House of Commons, confirming that Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband had summoned the Iranian ambassador over the incident. She added that the government had imposed sanctions on two individuals accused of conducting espionage in Europe and the United States.&nbsp;“Miliband will condemn Iran’s continued attempts to undermine our safety. We are also sanctioning two individuals involved in conducting espionage and attacks on behalf of the government of Iran in Europe and the US, and we will not hesitate to take further action to restrict Iran’s capacity to threaten international security,” she said. The incident occurred shortly after midnight on September 27, when five men from London travelled to Whelford, a village adjacent to a base used by the US Air Force, in three white vans. Police released the men on bail the following day after finding no bombs or explosives.&nbsp;A week later, 12 B-1 bombers were withdrawn from the base amid reports that the United States was concerned about a possible drone attack. The facility had previously been used by US forces during the conflict with Iran in the spring and summer. In the days following the incident, the prime minister had said there were ‘strong indications’ that Iran had been involved. A joint statement issued by the UK, the US and other European allies through the Foreign Office said the UK has also concluded this event demonstrates the IRGC’s continued willingness to project hostile activity beyond its borders through covert networks and proxy actors.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-s-ajit-doval-iran-s-mohsen-rezaei-hold-talks-amid-escalating-west-asia-tensions-discuss-issues-of-mutual-interest-1791829947882">India's Ajit Doval, Iran's Mohsen Rezaei hold talks amid escalating West Asia tensions, discuss 'issues of mutual interest'</a>&nbsp;Despite the stronger language from the government, the precise nature of the incident at Fairford remains unclear. Some experts have suggested it may have been a ‘feint’ intended to demonstrate that Iran could potentially target a relatively accessible military facility. British sources have repeatedly maintained that Iran does not possess the capability required to carry out what would be a sophisticated drone attack. Nevertheless, the episode appears to have raised concerns in Washington about the security of American military installations across Europe.&nbsp;The Fairford incident also comes amid what the UK described in the joint statement as a recent campaign of attacks across Europe targeting Jewish communities, Iranian journalists and US interests. These attacks have been claimed by Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya (HAYI). The United States has detained and indicted Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi, whom it accuses of being behind HAYI. However, evidence suggests that attacks linked to Iran may have continued despite the action against the alleged group leader.&nbsp;Separately, two Iranian nationals, Salam Ahmadyan of Liverpool and Rahman Salehi of Salford, were charged with terrorism offences a week ago. They are accused of attempting to target Manchester’s Jewish community with a homemade chlorine powder bomb. Prosecutors told a magistrates’ court that the pair had been in contact with a third party believed to be in Iran. According to the prosecution, the individual directed them and sent them instructions on how to prepare an explosive device. A trial in the case has been scheduled at the Old Bailey.

Andy Burnham says Iran’s IRGC was almost certainly behind RAF Fairford threats as the UK imposes sanctions and investigates security concerns

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was ‘almost certainly’ behind threats targeting RAF Fairford, marking the strongest attribution of responsibility made by the British government since the incident late last month. Addressing MPs on Monday (October 12), Burnham said the UK would introduce further sanctions against Tehran and the IRGC. However, the incident remains under investigation, with no charges brought against anyone in connection with the episode despite more than two weeks of police inquiries. Speaking in Parliament about the incident at RAF Fairford, Burnham said, “I can confirm our assessment that it is highly likely to have been coordinated in Iran, almost certainly directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards.” Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood also addressed the House of Commons, confirming that Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband had summoned the Iranian ambassador over the incident. She added that the government had imposed sanctions on two individuals accused of conducting espionage in Europe and the United States. “Miliband will condemn Iran’s continued attempts to undermine our safety. We are also sanctioning two individuals involved in conducting espionage and attacks on behalf of the government of Iran in Europe and the US, and we will not hesitate to take further action to restrict Iran’s capacity to threaten international security,” she said. The incident occurred shortly after midnight on September 27, when five men from London travelled to Whelford, a village adjacent to a base used by the US Air Force, in three white vans. Police released the men on bail the following day after finding no bombs or explosives. A week later, 12 B-1 bombers were withdrawn from the base amid reports that the United States was concerned about a possible drone attack. The facility had previously been used by US forces during the conflict with Iran in the spring and summer. In the days following the incident, the prime minister had said there were ‘strong indications’ that Iran had been involved. A joint statement issued by the UK, the US and other European allies through the Foreign Office said the UK has also concluded this event demonstrates the IRGC’s continued willingness to project hostile activity beyond its borders through covert networks and proxy actors. Also Read: India's Ajit Doval, Iran's Mohsen Rezaei hold talks amid escalating West Asia tensions, discuss 'issues of mutual interest' Despite the stronger language from the government, the precise nature of the incident at Fairford remains unclear. Some experts have suggested it may have been a ‘feint’ intended to demonstrate that Iran could potentially target a relatively accessible military facility. British sources have repeatedly maintained that Iran does not possess the capability required to carry out what would be a sophisticated drone attack. Nevertheless, the episode appears to have raised concerns in Washington about the security of American military installations across Europe. The Fairford incident also comes amid what the UK described in the joint statement as a recent campaign of attacks across Europe targeting Jewish communities, Iranian journalists and US interests. These attacks have been claimed by Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya (HAYI). The United States has detained and indicted Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi, whom it accuses of being behind HAYI. However, evidence suggests that attacks linked to Iran may have continued despite the action against the alleged group leader. Separately, two Iranian nationals, Salam Ahmadyan of Liverpool and Rahman Salehi of Salford, were charged with terrorism offences a week ago. They are accused of attempting to target Manchester’s Jewish community with a homemade chlorine powder bomb. Prosecutors told a magistrates’ court that the pair had been in contact with a third party believed to be in Iran. According to the prosecution, the individual directed them and sent them instructions on how to prepare an explosive device. A trial in the case has been scheduled at the Old Bailey.

Andy Burnham says Iran’s IRGC was ‘almost certainly’ behind RAF Fairford threats as the UK announces sanctions and raises security concerns

'Almost certainly': UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham says Iran's IRGC behind RAF Fairford threat

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (October 5) that the United States had withdrawn all B-1 bombers from the British airbase RAF Fairford because of ‘some threats’, although he did not disclose the nature of those threats. "There were some threats, and rather than tempting the enemy, we'll capture the enemy and beat the enemy, but why should we leave them there? So we moved them around a little bit, not very far," Trump told reporters at the White House.&nbsp;On September 27, police were called to RAF Fairford, located around 90 miles west of London, after a local farmer reported seeing three large white vans parked near the airbase and a group of hooded and masked men running into a nearby field. Armed officers from Gloucestershire Police responded to the report and arrested five men on suspicion of terrorism and explosives-related offenses. The men were later released on bail by British police. Laurence Taylor, head of UK Counter Terrorism Policing, clarified that their release does not mean the investigation has been closed. Last week, authorities also arrested a 25-year-old British-Iranian dual national in connection with the alleged plot. Iran has denied any involvement in the incident and dismissed the accusations as baseless. Tehran subsequently summoned the British ambassador in Tehran following the allegations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-pakistan-to-rapidly-deploy-troops-to-saudi-arabia-under-mecca-joint-defence-agreement-as-houthi-attacks-escalate-1791227340249">Turkey, Pakistan to rapidly deploy troops to Saudi Arabia under Mecca Joint Defence Agreement as Houthi attacks escalate</a><h2>Trump says US monitoring reported plague case in Russia</h2>Trump also said on Monday that the United States was watching reports of a plague case in Russia and would be prepared to assist Moscow if necessary. "We're looking at it very strongly, we just heard about it," Trump told reporters when asked what Washington was going to do about the risk of pneumonic plague coming from Russia. “We'll help them, we'll help them as much as we can.”<h2>Trump calls Bolsonaro’s first-round finish over Lula a ‘big victory'</h2>US President Donald Trump on Monday praised right-wing candidate Flavio Bolsonaro after he finished ahead of leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in Brazil’s first-round presidential election. Trump described Bolsonaro’s result as a significant achievement after the candidate secured a two-percentage-point lead over Lula in Sunday’s vote. "It's a big victory, close, but very, very big victory. Amazing," Trump said. With neither candidate securing enough votes to win outright, Bolsonaro and Lula will now face each other in a runoff election scheduled for October 25.

Trump says the US moved B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford over unspecified threats and is ready to help Russia over a reported pneumonic plague case

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (October 5) that the United States had withdrawn all B-1 bombers from the British airbase RAF Fairford because of ‘some threats’, although he did not disclose the nature of those threats. "There were some threats, and rather than tempting the enemy, we'll capture the enemy and beat the enemy, but why should we leave them there? So we moved them around a little bit, not very far," Trump told reporters at the White House. On September 27, police were called to RAF Fairford, located around 90 miles west of London, after a local farmer reported seeing three large white vans parked near the airbase and a group of hooded and masked men running into a nearby field. Armed officers from Gloucestershire Police responded to the report and arrested five men on suspicion of terrorism and explosives-related offenses. The men were later released on bail by British police. Laurence Taylor, head of UK Counter Terrorism Policing, clarified that their release does not mean the investigation has been closed. Last week, authorities also arrested a 25-year-old British-Iranian dual national in connection with the alleged plot. Iran has denied any involvement in the incident and dismissed the accusations as baseless. Tehran subsequently summoned the British ambassador in Tehran following the allegations. Also Read: Turkey, Pakistan to rapidly deploy troops to Saudi Arabia under Mecca Joint Defence Agreement as Houthi attacks escalate Trump says US monitoring reported plague case in Russia Trump also said on Monday that the United States was watching reports of a plague case in Russia and would be prepared to assist Moscow if necessary. "We're looking at it very strongly, we just heard about it," Trump told reporters when asked what Washington was going to do about the risk of pneumonic plague coming from Russia. “We'll help them, we'll help them as much as we can.” Trump calls Bolsonaro’s first-round finish over Lula a ‘big victory' US President Donald Trump on Monday praised right-wing candidate Flavio Bolsonaro after he finished ahead of leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in Brazil’s first-round presidential election. Trump described Bolsonaro’s result as a significant achievement after the candidate secured a two-percentage-point lead over Lula in Sunday’s vote. "It's a big victory, close, but very, very big victory. Amazing," Trump said. With neither candidate securing enough votes to win outright, Bolsonaro and Lula will now face each other in a runoff election scheduled for October 25.

Trump says US moved B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford over unspecified threats and says Washington will help Russia over a reported plague case

Trump says B-1 bombers moved from UK over 'some threats'; offers to help Russia over plague scare

British counter terrorism police have arrested a 27-year-old man with dual UK and Iranian citizenship in connection with the "major incident" at RAF Fairford in southwest England.&nbsp;Counter Terrorism Policing said on Thursday that the man was arrested in Westminster, central London, "on suspicion of preparation of terrorist acts". Police questioned a second British man but did not arrest him, while officers searched two properties in Westminster.&nbsp;The arrest came after British Prime Minister Andy Burnham told the BBC there were "strong indications that Iran played a part in what happened over the weekend at RAF Fairford", a base used by the US military in its war against Iran.<h3>What happened at RAF Fairford?</h3>Police were called to the base in the Cotswolds early Sunday after a farmer from nearby Whelford reported seeing vans blocking a road and a group of masked men.&nbsp;The incident led to the evacuation of the nearby village and the declaration of a "major incident".Earlier, police had arrested five London-based British men, all in their mid-20s, at the scene and examined several vehicles. The men were released on bail on Monday, a decision that drew criticism from Washington.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump said he was "surprised" by their release.&nbsp;"I wouldn't have done that," Trump told reporters, while his Secretary of State Marco Rubio alleged that a "foreign actor" was involved.&nbsp;The investigation then became the subject of speculation and confusion over who was behind the incident and what had happened at the airbase.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/family-of-renee-good-killed-in-immigration-crackdown-sues-us-government-and-ice-agent-1790873344147">Family of Renee Good, killed in immigration crackdown, sues US government and ICE agent</a><h3>Netanyahu claims Israel warned Britain</h3>Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had warned Britain about a possible plot before the UK government announced sanctions on products from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank on September 8.&nbsp;Speaking to Fox News host Sean Hannity on Wednesday, Netanyahu said: "You want to hear how absurd things are there, and how far the anti-Israel propaganda has gone?"&nbsp;"We gave the Brits the intel that there was going to be an attack, and it's an Iranian-sponsored attack. And pretty much the next day, they slapped sanctions on us," he said.&nbsp;The arrest of the dual UK-Iranian national has now added another development to the investigation into the incident at RAF Fairford.

British police arrested a 27 year old dual UK Iranian national in connection with the RAF Fairford incident as authorities investigate a possible Iranian role in the case.

British counter terrorism police have arrested a 27-year-old man with dual UK and Iranian citizenship in connection with the "major incident" at RAF Fairford in southwest England. Counter Terrorism Policing said on Thursday that the man was arrested in Westminster, central London, "on suspicion of preparation of terrorist acts". Police questioned a second British man but did not arrest him, while officers searched two properties in Westminster. The arrest came after British Prime Minister Andy Burnham told the BBC there were "strong indications that Iran played a part in what happened over the weekend at RAF Fairford", a base used by the US military in its war against Iran. What happened at RAF Fairford? Police were called to the base in the Cotswolds early Sunday after a farmer from nearby Whelford reported seeing vans blocking a road and a group of masked men. The incident led to the evacuation of the nearby village and the declaration of a "major incident". Earlier, police had arrested five London-based British men, all in their mid-20s, at the scene and examined several vehicles. The men were released on bail on Monday, a decision that drew criticism from Washington. US President Donald Trump said he was "surprised" by their release. "I wouldn't have done that," Trump told reporters, while his Secretary of State Marco Rubio alleged that a "foreign actor" was involved. The investigation then became the subject of speculation and confusion over who was behind the incident and what had happened at the airbase. Also Read: Family of Renee Good, killed in immigration crackdown, sues US government and ICE agent Netanyahu claims Israel warned Britain Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had warned Britain about a possible plot before the UK government announced sanctions on products from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank on September 8. Speaking to Fox News host Sean Hannity on Wednesday, Netanyahu said: "You want to hear how absurd things are there, and how far the anti-Israel propaganda has gone?" "We gave the Brits the intel that there was going to be an attack, and it's an Iranian-sponsored attack. And pretty much the next day, they slapped sanctions on us," he said. The arrest of the dual UK-Iranian national has now added another development to the investigation into the incident at RAF Fairford.

British police arrested a 27-year-old dual UK-Iranian national in connection with the RAF Fairford incident as authorities investigate a possible Iranian role in the case.

Dual UK-Iranian national arrested under Terrorism Act over RAF Fairford incident

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammed Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday dismissed British Prime Minister Andy Burnham's insinuation that Iran had a role in a so-called “incident” near the RAF Fairford air base. He accused the UK of “barking up the wrong tree” and showed the irony that the supposed suspects were released after being arrested in connection with a supposed “terror attack”.“PM Bur”nham says the UK Government ‘can confirm our belief that we believe Iran to have played a part’ in the RAF Fairford incident.“I can confirm Iran's belief that releasing supposed terrorists working for foreign states really says it all.”“You're barking up the wrong tree.”wrote Iranian Foreign Minister Arghachi in a post on the social media platform X.US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that the suspected terror plot “clearly involved the hands of a foreign actor,” after Trump said the suspects “might be” connected to Iran.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-democrats-block-stock-trading-ban-bill-voter-id-rules-1790850368249">US Senate Democrats block insider stock trading ban bill over voter ID rules</a>The Iranian embassy in London has categorically denied any involvement, calling the claims "unfounded and malicious speculations".British Police on Monday released the five accused on bail, arrested in relation to suspicion of explosives offences and preparing to commit a terrorist act under UK counter-terrorism legislation. In a surprising turn of events, the BBC reported that one of the men arrested was the first 999 caller. According to British Media, all of them were London-based, were in their mid-20s and were arrested on Sunday near the Royal Air Force base in Gloucestershire with “three suspicious white vans”.US President Donald Trump also expressed his surprise at the suspects being released, saying, “I wouldn’t have done that.”

Iran’s foreign minister rejected claims linking Tehran to the RAF Fairford incident after UK police released five suspects on bail.

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammed Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday dismissed British Prime Minister Andy Burnham's insinuation that Iran had a role in a so-called “incident” near the RAF Fairford air base. He accused the UK of “barking up the wrong tree” and showed the irony that the supposed suspects were released after being arrested in connection with a supposed “terror attack”. “PM Bur”nham says the UK Government ‘can confirm our belief that we believe Iran to have played a part’ in the RAF Fairford incident. “I can confirm Iran's belief that releasing supposed terrorists working for foreign states really says it all.” “You're barking up the wrong tree.” wrote Iranian Foreign Minister Arghachi in a post on the social media platform X. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that the suspected terror plot “clearly involved the hands of a foreign actor,” after Trump said the suspects “might be” connected to Iran. Also Read: US Senate Democrats block insider stock trading ban bill over voter ID rules The Iranian embassy in London has categorically denied any involvement, calling the claims "unfounded and malicious speculations". British Police on Monday released the five accused on bail, arrested in relation to suspicion of explosives offences and preparing to commit a terrorist act under UK counter-terrorism legislation. In a surprising turn of events, the BBC reported that one of the men arrested was the first 999 caller. According to British Media, all of them were London-based, were in their mid-20s and were arrested on Sunday near the Royal Air Force base in Gloucestershire with “three suspicious white vans”. US President Donald Trump also expressed his surprise at the suspects being released, saying, “I wouldn’t have done that.”

Iran’s foreign minister rejected claims linking Tehran to the RAF Fairford incident after UK police released five suspects on bail.

Iran says UK ‘Barking up the wrong tree' linking Iran to RAF Fairford incident

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday said that Israel had warned Britain about an upcoming Iranian-sponsored terror attack ahead of the recent suspected plot against a Royal Air Force (RAF) airbase which hosts the US Air Force and has since February been serving as a key hub for American operations against Iran.&nbsp;In the interview to Fox News he also went on to blame UK for imposing sanctions immediately after the information was passed.&nbsp;"Pretty much the next day they slapped sanctions on us," Netanyahu said and added, “The caving in, the collapse before the Islamist-Marxist alliance is very dangerous for the future of the West."&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flydubai-cockpit-attack-all-we-know-about-co-pilot-accused-of-stabbing-smit-machchhar-trying-to-crash-plane-with-174-passengers-onboard-1790825078610">Flydubai cockpit attack: Who is the co-pilot accused of stabbing Smit Machchhar, trying to crash plane with 174 passengers onboard?</a>&nbsp;Netanyahu's comments come amid British authorities investigating a suspected plot targeting RAF Fairford, a British airbase used by US forces for American operations against Iran. The air base houses heavy bombers like the B-1 Lancer and B-52 Stratofortress and is also a forward operating location for US Global Strike Command, which is tasked with managing long-distance strikes.<h2>Five men remain under investigation</h2>&nbsp;Five UK nationals aged between 23 and 25 were arrested near the base on suspicion of terrorism and explosives-related offences before being released on bail while the investigation continues. Four are understood to live in Westminster, while the fifth lives in Camden. Searches of all five homes have now been completed.&nbsp;British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said there are “strong indications” of Iranian involvement, although Iran has denied any involvement in the incident.&nbsp;Iran has previously warned that any base used for aggression against Iranian territory constitutes a legitimate target for our forces.&nbsp;The investigation remains ongoing, with police continuing to assess the circumstances surrounding the three vans, the arrests and any possible links to foreign actors.&nbsp;

In the interview Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahue also went on to blame UK for imposing sanctions soon after the information was passed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday said that Israel had warned Britain about an upcoming Iranian-sponsored terror attack ahead of the recent suspected plot against a Royal Air Force (RAF) airbase which hosts the US Air Force and has since February been serving as a key hub for American operations against Iran. In the interview to Fox News he also went on to blame UK for imposing sanctions immediately after the information was passed. "Pretty much the next day they slapped sanctions on us," Netanyahu said and added, “The caving in, the collapse before the Islamist-Marxist alliance is very dangerous for the future of the West." ALSO READ: Flydubai cockpit attack: Who is the co-pilot accused of stabbing Smit Machchhar, trying to crash plane with 174 passengers onboard? Netanyahu's comments come amid British authorities investigating a suspected plot targeting RAF Fairford, a British airbase used by US forces for American operations against Iran. The air base houses heavy bombers like the B-1 Lancer and B-52 Stratofortress and is also a forward operating location for US Global Strike Command, which is tasked with managing long-distance strikes. Five men remain under investigation Five UK nationals aged between 23 and 25 were arrested near the base on suspicion of terrorism and explosives-related offences before being released on bail while the investigation continues. Four are understood to live in Westminster, while the fifth lives in Camden. Searches of all five homes have now been completed. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said there are “strong indications” of Iranian involvement, although Iran has denied any involvement in the incident. Iran has previously warned that any base used for aggression against Iranian territory constitutes a legitimate target for our forces. The investigation remains ongoing, with police continuing to assess the circumstances surrounding the three vans, the arrests and any possible links to foreign actors.

In the interview Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahue also went on to blame UK for imposing sanctions soon after the information was passed.

RAF airbase incident: Netanyahu claims Israel warned Britain about Iranian terror plot

The UK government believes that Iran played a part in the RAF Fairford incident, which resulted in five men being arrested and then being released on bail, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Wednesday.&nbsp;“There are strong indications that Iran played a part in what happened over the weekend at RAF Fairford,” Burnham told the BBC but did not provide further details. Tehran has strongly denied any involvement.&nbsp;On being asked why the suspects had been released on bail, a decision questioned by President Donald Trump, the prime minister insisted the men were subject to the “strictest possible bail conditions” and added that UK authorities “have this under the strongest grip and closest control”.&nbsp;“We will say more in due course, but we can confirm our belief that we believe Iran to have played a part,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Working closely with our colleagues in US’</h2>&nbsp;“It remains an ongoing, complex and serious police investigation, and of course we are working closely with our colleagues in the United States of America,” Burnham added.&nbsp;Burnham’s comments come after it emerged that one of the five men had dialled 999 himself before they were arrested.&nbsp;Trump said at the White House on Monday, “I will tell you, I would have said, ‘Don’t let them have bail’. I’m surprised that they released them. I wouldn’t have done that.”&nbsp;Burnham clarified the situation, saying, “I think people need to understand that when it says released, that isn’t as people might think. It’s obviously with the strictest possible bail conditions.”&nbsp;“The authorities have this under the strongest grip and closest control, and I can assure you of that.”&nbsp;<h2>No explosives were found in searches of the three vehicles</h2>&nbsp;Burnham’s comment saying his government believes Iran played a part in the RAF Fairford incident comes after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Monday that the incident “clearly involves the hands of a foreign actor”.&nbsp;Rubio said in an interview with Fox News, “I think it ties us to the reality here, and that is we are dealing with elements in the world, and in the case of Iran, for example, who have openly threatened to attack American interests globally.”&nbsp;UK counterterrorism police said no explosives were found in extensive searches of the three vehicles operated by the men.&nbsp;Iran has, like Russia, been accused of using individuals who may be unaware they are even working for a foreign state to conduct sabotage attacks across Western Europe.The Iran-aligned group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia — or The Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Righteous (IMCR) — has claimed responsibility for several incidents over the past few months, including attacks on synagogues in the Netherlands and Belgium, and multiple attacks on north London’s Jewish community.

PM Andy Burnham’s comment saying his government believes Iran played a part in the RAF Fairford incident comes after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Fox News that the incident “clearly involves the hands of a foreign actor.”

The UK government believes that Iran played a part in the RAF Fairford incident, which resulted in five men being arrested and then being released on bail, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Wednesday. “There are strong indications that Iran played a part in what happened over the weekend at RAF Fairford,” Burnham told the BBC but did not provide further details. Tehran has strongly denied any involvement. On being asked why the suspects had been released on bail, a decision questioned by President Donald Trump, the prime minister insisted the men were subject to the “strictest possible bail conditions” and added that UK authorities “have this under the strongest grip and closest control”. “We will say more in due course, but we can confirm our belief that we believe Iran to have played a part,” he added. ‘Working closely with our colleagues in US’ “It remains an ongoing, complex and serious police investigation, and of course we are working closely with our colleagues in the United States of America,” Burnham added. Burnham’s comments come after it emerged that one of the five men had dialled 999 himself before they were arrested. Trump said at the White House on Monday, “I will tell you, I would have said, ‘Don’t let them have bail’. I’m surprised that they released them. I wouldn’t have done that.” Burnham clarified the situation, saying, “I think people need to understand that when it says released, that isn’t as people might think. It’s obviously with the strictest possible bail conditions.” “The authorities have this under the strongest grip and closest control, and I can assure you of that.” No explosives were found in searches of the three vehicles Burnham’s comment saying his government believes Iran played a part in the RAF Fairford incident comes after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Monday that the incident “clearly involves the hands of a foreign actor”. Rubio said in an interview with Fox News, “I think it ties us to the reality here, and that is we are dealing with elements in the world, and in the case of Iran, for example, who have openly threatened to attack American interests globally.” UK counterterrorism police said no explosives were found in extensive searches of the three vehicles operated by the men. Iran has, like Russia, been accused of using individuals who may be unaware they are even working for a foreign state to conduct sabotage attacks across Western Europe. The Iran-aligned group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia — or The Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Righteous (IMCR) — has claimed responsibility for several incidents over the past few months, including attacks on synagogues in the Netherlands and Belgium, and multiple attacks on north London’s Jewish community.

PM Andy Burnham’s comment saying his government believes Iran played a part in the RAF Fairford incident comes after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Fox News that the incident “clearly involves the hands of a foreign actor.”

‘Strong indications that Iran played a part in RAF Fairford incident,’ says PM Andy Burnham

One of the five men arrested near RAF Fairford in the early hours of Sunday morning had contacted police himself, according to BBC. The suspect reportedly called 999 at 00:45 BST, almost an hour before a female farmer contacted police after spotting a group of men wearing balaclavas. The five men were initially arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and later on suspicion of terrorism offences. Their arrests followed the discovery of three suspicious vans near RAF Fairford, the Gloucestershire base operated by the US military. All five were released on bail on Monday in what police described as an ‘investigative decision’ ‘grounded in experience and strategy’. Police said searches of the vans uncovered a quantity of petrol but no explosive devices.<h2>Farmer's 999 call</h2>Police were alerted to ‘three suspicious vehicles’ in Whelford, a village immediately east of the RAF base, after the farmer raised the alarm. Speaking to the BBC, she said it was pure luck that she noticed the vehicles. She had returned home to find the road blocked and encountered a large group of hooded and masked men. "I believe that my 999 call foiled whatever plans they had," she said. A bomb disposal team was sent to the scene shortly afterwards, while police established a 400m (1,312ft) cordon around the area.&nbsp;However, Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, the head of Counter Terrorism Policing, said the police response had been based on a range of information'. The cordons around the base are expected to be fully removed on Wednesday. Residents of the 85 homes evacuated during Sunday's operation have since been permitted to return.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-foils-major-pakistani-drug-smuggling-bid-five-arrested-with-526-kg-heroin-meth-in-arabian-sea-1790736892325">India foils major Pakistani drug smuggling bid: Five arrested with 526 kg heroin, meth in Arabian sea</a><h2>Five men remain under investigation</h2>The five suspects are all UK nationals aged between 23 and 25. Four are understood to live in Westminster, while the fifth lives in Camden. Searches of all five homes have now been completed. Taylor previously said their release on bail was subject to stringent conditions on their movement and contact with others while the investigation continues.&nbsp;"The safety of the public is at the forefront of our investigative decision-making, and this was certainly the case yesterday," he said on Tuesday. “I understand why this development was surprising to some, but I would like to reiterate that this is an investigative decision and one which is grounded in experience and strategy.” Police are continuing to examine multiple lines of inquiry. These include investigating whether proxies or individuals knowingly or unknowingly working on behalf of a foreign state may have been involved. Taylor said the incident had understandably caused concern, with the situation "heightened by the international commentary that we are seeing", apparently referring to comments from the US administration.<h2>RAF Fairford and US military operations</h2>RAF Fairford has served as a forward operating location for the US Air Force for decades. In recent months, US bombers have operated from the Gloucestershire base as part of operations in the Middle East, following the UK's approval of a US request to use the facility for defensive strikes on Iran. US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he was ‘disappointed’ that the five men had been released on bail.&nbsp;Prime Minister Andy Burnham chaired a Cobra meeting on Monday afternoon and urged the public not to speculate while the authorities establish the full facts. Iran has previously warned that any base used for aggression against Iranian territory constitutes a legitimate target for our forces.&nbsp;The Iranian embassy in London, however, has categorically rejects and strongly condemns unfounded and malicious speculations linking Iran to the incident. The investigation remains ongoing, with police continuing to assess the circumstances surrounding the three vans, the arrests and any possible links to foreign actors.

RAF Fairford arrests: Police reveal one suspect called 999 before a farmer spotted masked men as five UK nationals remain under investigation

One of the five men arrested near RAF Fairford in the early hours of Sunday morning had contacted police himself, according to BBC. The suspect reportedly called 999 at 00:45 BST, almost an hour before a female farmer contacted police after spotting a group of men wearing balaclavas. The five men were initially arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and later on suspicion of terrorism offences. Their arrests followed the discovery of three suspicious vans near RAF Fairford, the Gloucestershire base operated by the US military. All five were released on bail on Monday in what police described as an ‘investigative decision’ ‘grounded in experience and strategy’. Police said searches of the vans uncovered a quantity of petrol but no explosive devices. Farmer's 999 call Police were alerted to ‘three suspicious vehicles’ in Whelford, a village immediately east of the RAF base, after the farmer raised the alarm. Speaking to the BBC, she said it was pure luck that she noticed the vehicles. She had returned home to find the road blocked and encountered a large group of hooded and masked men. "I believe that my 999 call foiled whatever plans they had," she said. A bomb disposal team was sent to the scene shortly afterwards, while police established a 400m (1,312ft) cordon around the area. However, Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, the head of Counter Terrorism Policing, said the police response had been based on a range of information'. The cordons around the base are expected to be fully removed on Wednesday. Residents of the 85 homes evacuated during Sunday's operation have since been permitted to return. Also Read: India foils major Pakistani drug smuggling bid: Five arrested with 526 kg heroin, meth in Arabian sea Five men remain under investigation The five suspects are all UK nationals aged between 23 and 25. Four are understood to live in Westminster, while the fifth lives in Camden. Searches of all five homes have now been completed. Taylor previously said their release on bail was subject to stringent conditions on their movement and contact with others while the investigation continues. "The safety of the public is at the forefront of our investigative decision-making, and this was certainly the case yesterday," he said on Tuesday. “I understand why this development was surprising to some, but I would like to reiterate that this is an investigative decision and one which is grounded in experience and strategy.” Police are continuing to examine multiple lines of inquiry. These include investigating whether proxies or individuals knowingly or unknowingly working on behalf of a foreign state may have been involved. Taylor said the incident had understandably caused concern, with the situation "heightened by the international commentary that we are seeing", apparently referring to comments from the US administration. RAF Fairford and US military operations RAF Fairford has served as a forward operating location for the US Air Force for decades. In recent months, US bombers have operated from the Gloucestershire base as part of operations in the Middle East, following the UK's approval of a US request to use the facility for defensive strikes on Iran. US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he was ‘disappointed’ that the five men had been released on bail. Prime Minister Andy Burnham chaired a Cobra meeting on Monday afternoon and urged the public not to speculate while the authorities establish the full facts. Iran has previously warned that any base used for aggression against Iranian territory constitutes a legitimate target for our forces. The Iranian embassy in London, however, has categorically rejects and strongly condemns unfounded and malicious speculations linking Iran to the incident. The investigation remains ongoing, with police continuing to assess the circumstances surrounding the three vans, the arrests and any possible links to foreign actors.

One of five men arrested near RAF Fairford called 999 before a farmer raised the alarm, as police investigate possible terrorism and foreign-state links

RAF Fairford incident: One arrested man called emergency services before farmer raised alarm with police

British counter-terror police said on Tuesday (Sept 29) that they found no explosives in vans seen behaving suspiciously near RAF Fairford, a military airbase in southwest England used by the US military. However, officers recovered a quantity of petrol from the vehicles.&nbsp;"We can confirm that no improvised explosive devices were found. However, a quantity of petrol was recovered," counter-terror police said in an update on the investigation at RAF Fairford.&nbsp;The latest development comes after five London-based Britons were arrested early Sunday on explosives and terror offences. They were released on bail on Monday, although police said the investigation was still continuing.<h2>Trump and Rubio point to possible foreign involvement</h2>British police had earlier declared a major incident at RAF Fairford following the arrests, while the government held a national emergency meeting.&nbsp;The incident attracted attention because the airbase is used by the US military to launch strikes on Iran. Police said they were examining whether individuals acting on behalf of a foreign state could have been involved.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump said he was surprised by the decision to release the five suspects on bail and told reporters, "I wouldn’t have done that". US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also alleged that a "foreign actor" was involved.&nbsp;Trump later said the incident “might be” connected to Iran, which is at war with the United States.&nbsp;British authorities continued to examine the case after releasing the suspects on bail. "I understand why this development will have come as a surprise to many, but I'd like to reiterate that it was an investigative decision," Taylor said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-external-party-has-any-locus-standi-india-rejects-turkish-president-erdogan-s-kashmir-remarks-at-unga-1790692921670">'No external party has any locus standi': India rejects Turkish President Erdogan's Kashmir remarks at UNGA</a><h2>Iran denies involvement</h2>Iran's embassy in London rejected speculation that Tehran was involved in the incident.&nbsp;The embassy said it "categorically rejects and strongly condemns" speculation linking Iran to the case.The security scare also led authorities to evacuate 85 homes in a nearby village. Many residents had to stay elsewhere for at least one night as police dealt with the incident.&nbsp;The discovery of petrol has also raised another possibility, with some theories suggesting that the men could have been involved in fuel theft as energy prices continue to rise in the UK.&nbsp;However, police have not closed the investigation. Officers are continuing to examine the suspicious vans, the arrests and whether any foreign state was involved in the incident.

British police found no explosives in suspicious vans near RAF Fairford but recovered petrol, as Trump and Rubio raised the possibility of foreign involvement and Iran denied any connection.

British counter-terror police said on Tuesday (Sept 29) that they found no explosives in vans seen behaving suspiciously near RAF Fairford, a military airbase in southwest England used by the US military. However, officers recovered a quantity of petrol from the vehicles. "We can confirm that no improvised explosive devices were found. However, a quantity of petrol was recovered," counter-terror police said in an update on the investigation at RAF Fairford. The latest development comes after five London-based Britons were arrested early Sunday on explosives and terror offences. They were released on bail on Monday, although police said the investigation was still continuing. Trump and Rubio point to possible foreign involvement British police had earlier declared a major incident at RAF Fairford following the arrests, while the government held a national emergency meeting. The incident attracted attention because the airbase is used by the US military to launch strikes on Iran. Police said they were examining whether individuals acting on behalf of a foreign state could have been involved. US President Donald Trump said he was surprised by the decision to release the five suspects on bail and told reporters, "I wouldn’t have done that". US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also alleged that a "foreign actor" was involved. Trump later said the incident “might be” connected to Iran, which is at war with the United States. British authorities continued to examine the case after releasing the suspects on bail. "I understand why this development will have come as a surprise to many, but I'd like to reiterate that it was an investigative decision," Taylor said. Also Read: 'No external party has any locus standi': India rejects Turkish President Erdogan's Kashmir remarks at UNGA Iran denies involvement Iran's embassy in London rejected speculation that Tehran was involved in the incident. The embassy said it "categorically rejects and strongly condemns" speculation linking Iran to the case. The security scare also led authorities to evacuate 85 homes in a nearby village. Many residents had to stay elsewhere for at least one night as police dealt with the incident. The discovery of petrol has also raised another possibility, with some theories suggesting that the men could have been involved in fuel theft as energy prices continue to rise in the UK. However, police have not closed the investigation. Officers are continuing to examine the suspicious vans, the arrests and whether any foreign state was involved in the incident.

British police found no explosives in suspicious vans near RAF Fairford but recovered petrol, as Trump and Rubio raised the possibility of foreign involvement and Iran denied any connection.

No explosives, petrol found near US-run military base in UK as Trump alleges foreign hand

The five men arrested near the Royal Air Force base in Fairford being used by the US forces for operations against Iran in the ongoing conflict on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act were released on bail on Monday, said British police.&nbsp;“Following extensive interviews and enquiries, the five men who were arrested are being released on police bail this afternoon. To be very clear, this does not mean the investigation is over,” Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of the London Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terror unit, told reporters Monday afternoon.&nbsp;“To be very clear, this does not mean the investigation is over. They are subject to stringent conditions on their movement and contact with others. They absolutely remain under investigation as we explore multiple lines of enquiry,” Taylor added.&nbsp;He said investigators were considering all possible angles, including that the incident “may be activity committed by proxies, or individuals either knowingly or unknowingly, working on behalf of a foreign state.”&nbsp;All five men arrested on suspicion of terror offences at RAF Fairford are British nationals in their 20s from London, UK’s counter-terrorism police have said. The men were pictured shirtless on Sunday while being apprehended near the RAF base in Gloucestershire, which is being used by the US Air Force in its operations against Iran.&nbsp;The counter-terrorist police said in a statement that the five men were detained on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act and preparation of a terrorist act contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act. They include a 24-year-old from Camden, north London; three men aged 23, 24 and 25 from Westminster, central London, and one aged 24 from Willesden, north-west London.However, the police did not reveal their full identities and details.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mojtaba-khamenei-says-enemy-forces-will-soon-be-driven-out-of-arabian-sea-1790598022820">Mojtaba Khamenei says ‘enemy forces’ will soon be driven out of Arabian Sea</a>&nbsp;The police added that the suspects arrested in the village of Whelford on Sunday morning are being held under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, and a custody extension has been approved until later on Monday.&nbsp;The CTP are still working to establish a motive for the incident.&nbsp;Counter Terrorism Policing senior national coordinator, deputy assistant commissioner Vicki Evans said in a statement, “This is a hugely complex and large-scale operation, involving local and national policing, the MOD, and local agencies, who are working together to progress the investigation and support for the community.”“I know this has been incredibly disruptive for local people, but I’d like to reassure them that our activity is in the interest of national security, but most importantly in the interest of their own safety.”&nbsp;<h2>‘Investigation has led to multiple new lines of inquiry‘</h2>&nbsp;The suspects were arrested in Whelford on Sunday morning after reports of three vehicles travelling towards the airbase at 12.45 am.&nbsp;Counter-terrorism policing said investigators examined the scene overnight and had been carrying out a range of activity that had led to multiple new lines of inquiry.As many as 85 households were evacuated on Sunday, and a large police and emergency services presence has been there since then.&nbsp;Police said they were using “significant numbers of resources, including military assets,” at the location. “We are working hard to minimise disruption to local communities, but ask for their patience, as our work continues at the scene,” they said.There is still a cordon in place at the location, and police said they would be reviewing it later on Monday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-men-arrested-on-terror-charge-in-uk-85-homes-evacuated-near-air-base-used-by-us-1790526434108">‘Terror suspects arrested near UK air base were looking to do big damage’: Trump</a>&nbsp;Officers have been reportedly investigating whether Iran may be behind the suspected bomb plot. In July, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps publicly noted RAF Fairford’s use by US bombers, warning the UK that “any base used for aggression against Iranian territory constitutes a legitimate target for our forces”.&nbsp;Gloucestershire constabulary were initially alerted to three suspicious vans travelling towards RAF Fairford at 12.45 am on Sunday, and it is unclear what action was taken in the hour that followed.&nbsp;The local farmer who spotted the vans and a group of masked men said she initially called the Ministry of Defence police, but there was no answer, so she called 999 at 1.36 am, and armed police arrived around 10 minutes later, said local media reports.She said the police had “dropped the ball”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/muslim-marriage-cannot-shield-sex-with-minor-wife-from-prosecution-under-pocso-delhi-hc-1790518457378">Muslim marriage cannot shield sex with minor wife from prosecution under POCSO: Delhi HC</a><h2>Iran rejects reports of any links to airbase arrests</h2>&nbsp;The Iranian embassy in the UK denied any links with the incident on Monday and said in a statement on social media, “The embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in London categorically rejects and strongly condemns the recent unfounded and malicious speculations published by some British individuals and media outlets attempting to link Iran to the arrest of five suspects in the vicinity of RAF Fairford base.”&nbsp;“The circulation of such fabricated speculations, particularly in the aftermath of the criminal acts of aggression committed by the United States and the Israeli regime against the Iranian people, will serve no purpose other than to fuel Iranophobia propaganda in the UK.”

The arrested suspects include a 24-year-old from Camden, north London; three men aged 23, 24 and 25 from Westminster, central London, and one aged 24 from Willesden, north-west London, said police, but did not reveal their full identities and details.

The five men arrested near the Royal Air Force base in Fairford being used by the US forces for operations against Iran in the ongoing conflict on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act were released on bail on Monday, said British police. “Following extensive interviews and enquiries, the five men who were arrested are being released on police bail this afternoon. To be very clear, this does not mean the investigation is over,” Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of the London Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terror unit, told reporters Monday afternoon. “To be very clear, this does not mean the investigation is over. They are subject to stringent conditions on their movement and contact with others. They absolutely remain under investigation as we explore multiple lines of enquiry,” Taylor added. He said investigators were considering all possible angles, including that the incident “may be activity committed by proxies, or individuals either knowingly or unknowingly, working on behalf of a foreign state.” All five men arrested on suspicion of terror offences at RAF Fairford are British nationals in their 20s from London, UK’s counter-terrorism police have said. The men were pictured shirtless on Sunday while being apprehended near the RAF base in Gloucestershire, which is being used by the US Air Force in its operations against Iran. The counter-terrorist police said in a statement that the five men were detained on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act and preparation of a terrorist act contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act. They include a 24-year-old from Camden, north London; three men aged 23, 24 and 25 from Westminster, central London, and one aged 24 from Willesden, north-west London. However, the police did not reveal their full identities and details. Also Read: Mojtaba Khamenei says ‘enemy forces’ will soon be driven out of Arabian Sea The police added that the suspects arrested in the village of Whelford on Sunday morning are being held under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, and a custody extension has been approved until later on Monday. The CTP are still working to establish a motive for the incident. Counter Terrorism Policing senior national coordinator, deputy assistant commissioner Vicki Evans said in a statement, “This is a hugely complex and large-scale operation, involving local and national policing, the MOD, and local agencies, who are working together to progress the investigation and support for the community.” “I know this has been incredibly disruptive for local people, but I’d like to reassure them that our activity is in the interest of national security, but most importantly in the interest of their own safety.” ‘Investigation has led to multiple new lines of inquiry‘ The suspects were arrested in Whelford on Sunday morning after reports of three vehicles travelling towards the airbase at 12.45 am. Counter-terrorism policing said investigators examined the scene overnight and had been carrying out a range of activity that had led to multiple new lines of inquiry. As many as 85 households were evacuated on Sunday, and a large police and emergency services presence has been there since then. Police said they were using “significant numbers of resources, including military assets,” at the location. “We are working hard to minimise disruption to local communities, but ask for their patience, as our work continues at the scene,” they said. There is still a cordon in place at the location, and police said they would be reviewing it later on Monday. Also Read: ‘Terror suspects arrested near UK air base were looking to do big damage’: Trump Officers have been reportedly investigating whether Iran may be behind the suspected bomb plot. In July, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps publicly noted RAF Fairford’s use by US bombers, warning the UK that “any base used for aggression against Iranian territory constitutes a legitimate target for our forces”. Gloucestershire constabulary were initially alerted to three suspicious vans travelling towards RAF Fairford at 12.45 am on Sunday, and it is unclear what action was taken in the hour that followed. The local farmer who spotted the vans and a group of masked men said she initially called the Ministry of Defence police, but there was no answer, so she called 999 at 1.36 am, and armed police arrived around 10 minutes later, said local media reports. She said the police had “dropped the ball”. Also Read: Muslim marriage cannot shield sex with minor wife from prosecution under POCSO: Delhi HC Iran rejects reports of any links to airbase arrests The Iranian embassy in the UK denied any links with the incident on Monday and said in a statement on social media, “The embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in London categorically rejects and strongly condemns the recent unfounded and malicious speculations published by some British individuals and media outlets attempting to link Iran to the arrest of five suspects in the vicinity of RAF Fairford base.” “The circulation of such fabricated speculations, particularly in the aftermath of the criminal acts of aggression committed by the United States and the Israeli regime against the Iranian people, will serve no purpose other than to fuel Iranophobia propaganda in the UK.”

The arrested suspects include a 24-year-old from Camden, north London; three men aged 23, 24 and 25 from Westminster, central London, and one aged 24 from Willesden, north-west London, said police, but did not reveal their full identities and details.

All five men arrested near RAF Fairford over suspected bomb plot released on bail: Police

British Counter-terrorism Police are understood to be investigating a possible Iran link after an alleged bomb threat; five suspects were arrested near a Royal Air Force Fairford air base, according to a report by the British newspaper The Daily Telegraph. The report cites anonymous sources who say Tehran was unlikely to use proxies for this; instead, it was more likely to involve the state directly, but they also refused to rule out a possible Russian sabotage operation or an Islamist plot.The physical arrests were triggered by a 999 call by a farmer who reportedly saw "a large group of hooded and masked men" lingering around with three suspicious vans, near the Royal Air Force Fairford air base used to strike Iran earlier in the year.&nbsp;"When they saw me they ran ahead of me - some into the field and some towards the neighbouring village," she said. "I then realised that something highly unusual was taking place." The police reportedly rushed to the spot and arrested them.&nbsp;The police have not disclosed the content within the three white vans, but according to military sources reported by British media, they reportedly contain materials and large black barrels consistent with Improvised Explosive Devices.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-china-iran-war-strait-hormuz-pressure-tehran-1790531547788">Trump asked Xi to pressure Iran. China did not say yes — here’s what Beijing wants</a>There is a contradiction in the whole narrative of the event. US President Donald Trump has said that the suspects had been looking to do “big damage” and had been under investigation by British and US authorities for sometime, inconsistent with the reports of the British media.&nbsp;British Defence Secretary Wes Streeting declined to link an ongoing investigation with Iran, suggesting that it would be “very unwise” for him to speculate.“I don’t want to draw a link between what’s happening in Iran and this incident at this stage,” Wes Streeting told Bloomberg TV. “It’s far too early for me to, or indeed anyone else, to speculate on aims and motives.”&nbsp;

UK police are probing a possible Iran link after five suspects were arrested near RAF Fairford, while Defence Secretary Wes Streeting cautioned against speculation.

British Counter-terrorism Police are understood to be investigating a possible Iran link after an alleged bomb threat; five suspects were arrested near a Royal Air Force Fairford air base, according to a report by the British newspaper The Daily Telegraph. The report cites anonymous sources who say Tehran was unlikely to use proxies for this; instead, it was more likely to involve the state directly, but they also refused to rule out a possible Russian sabotage operation or an Islamist plot. The physical arrests were triggered by a 999 call by a farmer who reportedly saw "a large group of hooded and masked men" lingering around with three suspicious vans, near the Royal Air Force Fairford air base used to strike Iran earlier in the year. "When they saw me they ran ahead of me - some into the field and some towards the neighbouring village," she said. "I then realised that something highly unusual was taking place." The police reportedly rushed to the spot and arrested them. The police have not disclosed the content within the three white vans, but according to military sources reported by British media, they reportedly contain materials and large black barrels consistent with Improvised Explosive Devices. Also Read: Trump asked Xi to pressure Iran. China did not say yes — here’s what Beijing wants There is a contradiction in the whole narrative of the event. US President Donald Trump has said that the suspects had been looking to do “big damage” and had been under investigation by British and US authorities for sometime, inconsistent with the reports of the British media. British Defence Secretary Wes Streeting declined to link an ongoing investigation with Iran, suggesting that it would be “very unwise” for him to speculate. “I don’t want to draw a link between what’s happening in Iran and this incident at this stage,” Wes Streeting told Bloomberg TV. “It’s far too early for me to, or indeed anyone else, to speculate on aims and motives.”

UK police are probing a possible Iran link after five suspects were arrested near RAF Fairford, while Defence Secretary Wes Streeting cautioned against speculation.

Police probe possible 'Iran-link' in arrests near RAF Fairford, Streeting says too early to speculate

President Donald Trump said on Sunday morning that the five suspects arrested near a Royal Air Force Fairford air base on the suspicion of preparing a terrorist act at the facility, used by US bombers in the operations against Iran, were looking to do big damage but claimed that they had been under US investigation.&nbsp;“Working with Britain, it was an amazing job. We had them under investigation. They were looking to do big damage to our fort, and working with the British worked out great, and we got them,” Trump told reporters Sunday morning.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">BREAKING: UK police just arrested 5 men near RAF Fairford, the air base used by U.S. bombers. Suspicion of explosives offenses AND preparing a terrorist act. Bomb squad on scene. Dozens of homes evacuated. They were heading toward a U.S. base. That is not a coincidence.…&mdash; MAGA Kitty (@SaveUSAKitty) <a href="https://x.com/SaveUSAKitty/status/2104224680991211830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;“The arrest in the UK was fantastic. We had them under review for a long time, and we got them. Worked with the UK to make arrests near the RAF base. Suspects had been under surveillance for a long time, and we captured them,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>Men arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act</h2>&nbsp;British police arrested five men on Sunday on the suspicion of preparing a terrorist act near a Royal Air Force base that has been used by US bombers in the operations against Iran. The UK’s Metropolitan Police said officers received a call around 12:45 am local time about three suspicious vehicles travelling toward RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, a county in southwestern England.&nbsp;Police received a call around 12.45 am Sunday local time relating to “three suspicious vehicles” that appeared to be travelling towards the air base used by the US 501st Combat Support Wing and the 420th Air Base Squadron, said Metropolitan Police in a statement.&nbsp;Armed officers responded in the area of Whelford, a village some 33 miles from the city of Oxford. There they arrested the men “on suspicion of committing offences under the Explosives Act", and they were further arrested “on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act”.<h2>Roadblocks, 40-metre cordon set up near RAF Fairford</h2>&nbsp;Officials declared a major incident and set up roadblocks overnight near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, southwestern England.&nbsp;UK counter-terrorism official Vicki Evans, deputy assistant commissioner, said officers established a 400-metre cordon (roughly a quarter-mile) around vehicles in the area while the British Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit conducted examinations.&nbsp;“As a precaution, around 85 households have been evacuated whilst these examinations take place,” she said in a statement.&nbsp;RAF Fairford is the US Air Force’s preferred bomber forward operating location in Europe and supports a variety of missions and exercises throughout the year.&nbsp;After the start of the US-Israeli war on Iran on Feb. 28, the UK government allowed the American military to use the Fairford base to strike Iranian missile sites.&nbsp;A spokesperson for the US Air Force said the US and British personnel “remain vigilant” and will take appropriate actions to ensure the safety of all those at the base.“For operational security reasons we will not discuss specific force protection measures,” the spokesperson said. “We constantly assess a variety of factors that determine what measures we institute or modify to protect our installations, our people and their families.”&nbsp;The incident comes a day after US President Donald Trump said he has rejected the latest Iranian proposal to end the war.&nbsp;Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had warned in July that any base used for attacks on Iranian territory would be considered a “legitimate target” in a statement that specifically referenced US B-1 bombers flying from RAF Fairford.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Incident deeply concerning,’ says UK PM</h2>&nbsp;UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the incident near RAF Fairford will be deeply concerning for local residents and people following developments across the country. “My thanks go to Gloucestershire Police, Counter Terrorism Policing, our Armed Forces and all those working to keep the public safe. I am especially grateful to those residents who have been asked to leave their homes while precautionary checks are carried out.”“The safety and security of the public is our first priority, and I want people to know that we will always take every step necessary to protect our communities and keep our country safe,” he added.

A spokesperson for the US Air Force said the US and British personnel remain vigilant and will take appropriate actions to ensure the safety of all those at the base. The incident comes a day after US President Donald Trump said he has rejected the latest Iranian proposal to end the war.

President Donald Trump said on Sunday morning that the five suspects arrested near a Royal Air Force Fairford air base on the suspicion of preparing a terrorist act at the facility, used by US bombers in the operations against Iran, were looking to do big damage but claimed that they had been under US investigation. “Working with Britain, it was an amazing job. We had them under investigation. They were looking to do big damage to our fort, and working with the British worked out great, and we got them,” Trump told reporters Sunday morning.

A spokesperson for the US Air Force said the US and British personnel remain vigilant and will take appropriate actions to ensure the safety of all those at the base. The incident comes a day after US President Donald Trump said he has rejected the latest Iranian proposal to end the war.

‘Terror suspects arrested near UK air base were looking to do big damage’: Trump

The UK police on Sunday (Sept 27) arrested several people on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act after the declaration of a major incident close to a major US air base in the southwest of England. Several homes were evacuated and a number of vehicles were being inspected by the army as security was stepped up at the Gloucestershire airbase, which is used by US forces.&nbsp;"A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area following the declaration of a major incident," Gloucestershire Police said in a statement.&nbsp;"It follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offenses under the explosives act," the statement added.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gunmen-kill-27-in-two-separate-mass-shootings-in-south-africa-1790493535473">Gunmen kill 27 in two separate mass shootings in South Africa</a>&nbsp;The village of Whelford is located around 2 miles from RAF Fairford, which hosts the U.S. Air Force and has since February been serving as a key hub for American operations against Iran. The air base houses heavy bombers like the B-1 Lancer and B-52 Stratofortress and is also a forward operating location for US Global Strike Command, which is tasked with managing long-distance strikes.&nbsp;“A cordon is currently in place but we’d like to reassure people that we believe this incident is contained,” Gloucestershire police said.&nbsp;The base has been in the news for protests over the British government’s decision to allow the US to use it to carry out strikes on Iranian missile sites that are attacking ships in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;

The village of Whelford is located around 2 miles from RAF Fairford, which hosts the US Air Force.

The UK police on Sunday (Sept 27) arrested several people on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act after the declaration of a major incident close to a major US air base in the southwest of England. Several homes were evacuated and a number of vehicles were being inspected by the army as security was stepped up at the Gloucestershire airbase, which is used by US forces. "A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area following the declaration of a major incident," Gloucestershire Police said in a statement. "It follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offenses under the explosives act," the statement added. ALSO READ: Gunmen kill 27 in two separate mass shootings in South Africa The village of Whelford is located around 2 miles from RAF Fairford, which hosts the U.S. Air Force and has since February been serving as a key hub for American operations against Iran. The air base houses heavy bombers like the B-1 Lancer and B-52 Stratofortress and is also a forward operating location for US Global Strike Command, which is tasked with managing long-distance strikes. “A cordon is currently in place but we’d like to reassure people that we believe this incident is contained,” Gloucestershire police said. The base has been in the news for protests over the British government’s decision to allow the US to use it to carry out strikes on Iranian missile sites that are attacking ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

The village of Whelford is located around 2 miles from RAF Fairford, which hosts the US Air Force.

UK police arrest several under explosives act near air base used by US forces

Iran has issued a fresh warning against the United Kingdom, threatening to target RAF Fairford after accusing Britain of assisting US military strikes on Iranian territory. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared that any military base used to launch attacks on Iran is now a legitimate target. The warning comes after reports that a US Air Force B-1 bomber departed from RAF Fairford, a major American forward operating base in England, fueling speculation over Britain's role in the escalating West Asia conflict.

Iran threatens UK airbase after US Strikes | RAF Fairford faces warning as Middle East war escalates

While one sits in southwest England, the other lies deep in the Indian Ocean, giving the US both regional reach and global strike flexibility.

While one sits in southwest England, the other lies deep in the Indian Ocean, giving the US both regional reach and global strike flexibility.

Which UK bases can US use to strike Iranian missile sites, why are they so critical?

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Iran threatens UK airbase after US Strikes | RAF Fairford faces warning as Middle East war escalates

Which UK bases can US use to strike Iranian missile sites?