Prime Minister Andy Burnham told the BBC on Wednesday that he believes Iran was behind a suspected terror attack at RAF Fairford, a key forward‑operating base for the United States in Gloucestershire. The incident unfolded over the weekend and police arrested five men on Sunday on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act.
Investigators said the site yielded no explosive devices, but they did recover a substantial quantity of aviation fuel. The men were released on bail as the probe continues, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Burnham said the UK is working closely with its American allies. "We are working closely with our colleagues in the United States of America," he added, hinting at a joint intelligence effort.
The Iranian Embassy in London responded on Monday, labeling the allegations "unfounded and malicious" and accusing the UK of "fueling Iranophobia" through the narrative. It issued a statement on X that it would take legal action if the claims were not corrected.
RAF Fairford hosts the U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command and has been used for launching strikes on Iran. The base’s strategic role makes any security breach a matter of international concern.
The investigation is ongoing, with police expected to hand over evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service next week.