Israel Provided Intelligence on Iran-Linked Plot, Then Faced UK Sanctions

Israel was behind the intelligence that led to the foiling of an attack near the U.S. Air Force base Fairford in Britain, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed in an interview with Fox News. Israeli sources shared information with American and British authorities regarding potential Iranian involvement in directing the assault.

Netanyahu expressed frustration with London's response, stating, "We gave the British intelligence information that an attack sponsored by Iran was about to happen, and almost the next day they imposed sanctions on us. It's simply crazy." British Prime Minister Andy Burnham acknowledged strong indications of Iranian involvement and emphasized close cooperation with the U.S. on the ongoing investigation.

U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington was seriously examining the matter. Iran, however, denied the allegations. The incident began early Sunday when police received a report of three suspicious vehicles heading towards the base. Armed officers apprehended five British citizens in their twenties, all London residents, and several homes were evacuated.

The investigation took a turn when it was discovered that the three vans contained gasoline but no explosives. The five individuals were released on bail with restrictive conditions, though police stressed they remain under investigation by the counter-terrorism unit. According to The Times of London, one suspect reportedly called emergency services himself shortly before the arrest.

Investigators are exploring whether the suspects were involved in intelligence gathering, conducting a dry run of security systems, or attempting to send a political message. The Fairford base has hosted U.S. forces for years and recently served as a launch point for bombers participating in strikes against Iran. Following this, Iran's Revolutionary Guard threatened such bases, deeming them legitimate targets, and security at Fairford had already been increased due to these threats.