London(The COW News Digital) British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said there are strong indications that Iran played a role in a security incident near RAF Fairford, a military base in England that has been used by US forces during operations against Iran.
Speaking to the BBC, Burnham said the investigation remained ongoing and described the case as complex and serious. He did not disclose the evidence behind the suspected Iranian link, saying further details could be provided at a later stage. British authorities are working closely with their US counterparts as the investigation continues.
The incident came to light in the early hours of September 27 after three suspicious vans were reported near the airbase in Gloucestershire. Five British men in their 20s were arrested on suspicion of terrorism and explosives-related offences. They were subsequently released on bail but remain under investigation.
Police searches of the vehicles found a quantity of petrol, but no viable explosives were recovered. The discovery prompted counter-terrorism investigators to examine several possible explanations for the incident, including potential links to a foreign state or individuals acting as proxies. Authorities have not publicly established the exact purpose of the vehicles or the suspects’ activities.
The investigation also led to precautionary measures in the surrounding area, with residents evacuated while bomb disposal specialists examined the suspicious vehicles. British officials have emphasized that the case is still active and that conclusions about the suspects’ motives or any foreign involvement remain subject to the investigation.
Iran has strongly rejected the British allegation. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded to Burnham’s comments by denying that Tehran was involved and criticizing the British government’s suggestion of an Iranian connection. Iran has previously rejected speculation linking it to the incident.
RAF Fairford has particular strategic importance because it has been used by American military aircraft during operations in the Middle East. The base’s connection to US military activity against Iran has therefore increased attention surrounding the security incident.
The case has also attracted attention in Washington. US officials have questioned the decision to release the suspects on bail, while British counter-terrorism authorities have defended the decision and said the men remain under investigation. Police have stressed that the inquiry is continuing and that investigators are examining multiple possible lines of evidence.
For now, the British government’s assessment of possible Iranian involvement remains an allegation under investigation rather than a publicly established finding. Further evidence and the outcome of the police inquiry are expected to clarify whether the incident involved any state-backed activity.
