UK arrests dual UK-Iranian national over Fairford air base incident

British counter-terrorism police announced on Thursday they had arrested a 27-year-old man holding dual UK-Iranian nationality on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts. The arrest, made in London, is linked to an ongoing investigation into an incident near RAF Fairford air base in western England, a site used by US forces for missions targeting Iran.

Police also said a 26-year-old British man was questioned under caution, and searches were carried out at two properties as part of the inquiry.

Five men arrested on Sunday

The case began on Sunday when five British men in their 20s were arrested near the air base on suspicion of terrorism and explosives offences. The operation triggered a large police response and raised concern among Western allies, though the circumstances remain largely unclear. The men were later released without charge, but under strict bail conditions.

Detectives confirmed that while petrol was found in vans used by the men, no improvised explosive device was present. The operation was launched following various pieces of information, including a tip from a local farmer who grew suspicious after seeing the men near the base in three vans. Reports have also indicated that one of the men called emergency services himself shortly before being arrested.

Possible foreign state involvement

Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, said the investigation is highly complex, with specialist teams pursuing multiple lines of enquiry, including possible involvement of a foreign state. Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Wednesday the incident might have an Iranian link. Iran has rejected the allegations as baseless and summoned the British ambassador in Tehran on Thursday.

Burnham said Britain is working closely with the United States, whose bombers have used Fairford in recent months to launch operations against Iran. US President Donald Trump had earlier said those involved planned to cause "big damage" and stated he would not have released the suspects. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also pointed to the involvement of a "foreign actor" in the incident.