The Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, has stated there are “strong indications” that Iran played a role in a suspected terror plot near the RAF Fairford military base in Gloucestershire. This follows the arrest of five British nationals over the weekend on suspicion of explosives offences and terrorism, ahead of their release on bail under investigation on Monday.
Burnham emphasised that the UK authorities are working closely with the United States and assured the public that the situation is firmly under control. The Gloucestershire base has recently been utilised by American bombers for “defensive” strikes against Tehran, with permission granted by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.
Counter-terrorism police reported that while a quantity of petrol was found in the vans involved in the incident, no explosive devices were discovered. The investigation remains complex and ongoing, Burnham noted during multiple broadcast interviews.
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Addressing former US President Donald Trump’s criticism of the suspects' release, Burnham told the BBC that the decision was guided by legal processes, and on Sky News added that he “wouldn’t hesitate” to recall Parliament if necessary. He chaired an emergency COBRA meeting during the Labour Party conference to discuss the incident.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio commented on the case, suggesting the suspected plot involved “the hand of a foreign actor,” though he refrained from providing further specifics. Rubio praised cooperation between UK and US authorities concerning the investigation.
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of UK counter-terrorism policing, highlighted that police response was prompt following information received early Sunday. The five suspects remain under strict investigation and must comply with rigorous bail conditions.
Residents near RAF Fairford, many of whom were evacuated on Sunday morning, have begun returning to normal life as police cordons are expected to be lifted by Wednesday. Searches of the suspects' London homes have concluded.
Concerns and speculation about Iran’s potential involvement persist, given its history of utilising proxies for operations on UK soil. However, the Iranian embassy in London issued a firm denial, condemning the allegations as “unfounded and malicious speculations” and accusing some British media outlets of promoting “Iranophobia propaganda.”
The embassy warned of possible legal action to protect Iran’s national interests and counteract misleading narratives.
The five suspects, aged between 23 and 25 and all UK nationals from Camden and Westminster, have yet to confirm when they will answer bail. Public interest remains high as investigations continue into this serious security incident.