UK says ‘strong indication’ Iran was involved in incident at air base housing US forces

The United Kingdom has stated there are "strong indications" of Iranian involvement in a recent security incident at RAF Fairford, a British air base that houses US forces. Five British men in their twenties were arrested near the base on Sunday, September 27, 2026, on suspicion of explosives offenses and preparing a terrorist act. Police found gasoline in their vans but no explosives, and the individuals were subsequently released on bail.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham confirmed the UK's belief in Iran's participation, though he emphasized that a complex and serious police investigation is ongoing in cooperation with US officials. This incident occurred amidst a period where American bombers operating from RAF Fairford have been involved in strikes against Iran, a factor that Tehran previously cited as making such bases legitimate targets.

Iran has vehemently denied any role in the alleged plot, with its embassy in London issuing a statement that "categorically rejects and strongly condemns" what it termed as "unfounded and malicious speculations." The arrests and subsequent bail release of the suspects drew criticism from top US officials, including President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who suggested the involvement of a foreign actor.