Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that the UK has 'strong indications' that Iran was involved in a security incident at an RAF base used by the US. Burnham made these comments during an interview with the BBC on Wednesday, noting that investigations into the alleged plot at the Royal Air Force base in Fairford are ongoing. Five British men in their 20s were arrested near the base on Sunday on suspicion of terrorism and explosives offenses but were released on bail a day later.
Burnham emphasized the complexity of the investigation, saying, 'There are strong indications that Iran played a part in what happened over the weekend at RAF Fairford, but of course it remains an ongoing, complex and serious police investigation.' He added that the UK is collaborating closely with the United States.
This statement marks the first time a British official has publicly linked Iran to the events at the base. Iran has denied any involvement, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responding to Burnham's allegations on social media. He stated, 'PM Burnham 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.'
The RAF base, located 160 km west of London, has been utilized by US bombers during various conflicts in the Middle East, including the recent conflict involving the US and Israel against Iran. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran has previously declared that any base used to attack its territory is considered a legitimate target.
Following three days of investigations, police announced that no explosives were found in the vehicles, although a 'quantity of petrol' was retrieved. US officials have criticized the decision to grant bail to the suspects, with President Donald Trump expressing his disapproval and Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that many were 'disturbed' by the move.
Laurence Taylor, head of British counterterror policing, explained that the decision to grant bail was based on 'experience and strategy' and that the investigation continues. He noted that authorities are exploring whether the suspected offenses were committed by 'proxies or individuals, either knowingly or unknowingly, working on behalf of a foreign state.'
Additionally, The Times reported that one of the suspects called emergency services shortly before his arrest, raising questions about whether this was part of a surveillance effort or a test of security. Investigators are considering various scenarios regarding the motives behind the call, but police have not confirmed any details about it.