Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has strongly denied claims made by Prime Minister Andy Burnham linking Iran to a suspected terror plot near RAF Fairford. Araghchi responded on social media platform X, stating: “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.”
The remarks follow Burnham’s assertion that there was “a strong indication that Iran played a part” in the incident involving five British men arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and terrorism near the Gloucestershire military base. All five, men in their mid-20s, were subsequently bailed pending further investigation.
Speaking to Sky News, Burnham acknowledged the ongoing nature of the “complex and serious police investigation”. He confirmed that he chaired a COBRA meeting on Monday to discuss the matter and emphasised the seriousness with which the authorities were handling the case. Burnham also indicated he would recall Parliament if the situation warranted further scrutiny.
READ MORE: Gloucester family discovers CCTV camera installed inside their home
The suspected plot comes amid heightened tensions, as the US has been permitted to use UK bases, including RAF Fairford, for defensive strikes related to the ongoing Middle East conflict. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested on Tuesday that a foreign actor was involved in the plot but did not provide further details.
British investigators are reportedly examining possible Iranian connections, though Iran’s embassy in London has categorically denied any involvement in the events at RAF Fairford.
Details of the operation reveal that one of the detained men reportedly called emergency services himself in the early hours of Sunday. Armed police responded promptly and arrested the suspects on suspicion of explosives and terrorism-related offences. A local farmer also reported three vans blocking a road near the base shortly after the police arrived.
Counter-terrorism officers found petrol in the vehicles but no explosives. Laurence Taylor, head of UK counter-terrorism, confirmed the police action was based on “a range of information” received and stated that the five men have been released on bail with strict conditions while investigations continue.