Israel reportedly provided the United Kingdom with intelligence concerning a suspected terrorist plot near RAF Fairford, according to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Israeli leader stated that the warning was about an “Iranian-sponsored attack” and was given shortly before the UK government announced a trade ban related to Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
The issue followed the arrest of five men near the Gloucestershire military base, accused of explosives offences and terrorism. They were subsequently released on bail pending further inquiry. Andy Burnham, commenting on the incident, said there were “strong indications” that Iran was involved, without disclosing specific details due to an ongoing investigation.
Speaking in an interview with a US broadcaster, Mr Netanyahu criticised what he described as anti-Israeli sentiment in the UK, highlighting the timing of the intelligence sharing and the following sanctions, which he said were directed at Israel. He expressed concern over what he termed a “collapse before the Islamist-Marxist alliance,” warning this posed a threat to Western interests.
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The trade sanctions, announced last month as a response to the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, caused diplomatic tensions between the UK and Israel. Mr Netanyahu implied that the UK government had prior knowledge of the alleged attack but maintained the sanctions regardless.
The detained individuals, all British nationals in their mid-20s, were arrested over the weekend but were bailed on Monday. Counter-terrorism police reported that while petrol was discovered in vehicles near the base, no explosive devices were found.
RAF Fairford has recently been used by US bombers after approval was given under former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for the use of British bases to conduct defensive strikes against Tehran amid the Middle East conflict.
Following criticism from former US President Donald Trump over the release of the suspects, the UK Prime Minister affirmed that British authorities remain in close cooperation with US counterparts and maintain firm control over the situation. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has been contacted for comment on Mr Netanyahu’s statement.