UK PM says ‘strong indications’ Iran played role in RAF Fairford incident

LONDON, Sept 30: British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said Wednesday there are “strong indications” that Iran played a role in a suspected terrorist incident near RAF Fairford, a British airbase used by US forces for operations against Iran.

“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,” Burnham said, adding that Britain is working closely with the United States.

Burnham did not provide details of the evidence behind the assessment, saying the matter remained under investigation. He said Britain would provide further information in due course.

Five British men in their 20s were arrested near the airbase on Sunday on suspicion of explosives offences and preparing a terrorist act after police received reports of three suspicious vans and men in the area. The suspects were subsequently released on bail under strict conditions and remain under investigation.

Police have said no explosive devices were found, although a quantity of petrol was recovered from the vans. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incident, including possible foreign-state involvement.

RAF Fairford has been used by US aircraft for operations against Iran. The base's role in those operations has also been cited in previous Iranian warnings concerning facilities used for attacks against Iranian territory.

Iran has denied involvement in the incident. The investigation remains ongoing, with British and US authorities coordinating on the case.