Iran-Linked Man Arrested in UK Over Terror Plot Near US Air Base

British counter-terrorism police have arrested a 25-year-old dual British-Iranian citizen in London on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts. He is the sixth suspect detained in connection with an incident near RAF Fairford, a base from which US bombers have launched strikes in Iran. The arrest occurred in Westminster, and police searched two properties. A 26-year-old British man is also being questioned.

British police described the investigation as complex, exploring multiple leads, including the possibility of state involvement. "We are examining all possible angles, including the involvement of a foreign state," stated Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Vicky Evans. The incident began when a local farmer reported three commercial vehicles blocking a road near the base, with a group of masked men present. However, it was later revealed that one of the suspects had called the police about an hour earlier.

Five initial suspects, aged 23 to 25, were arrested at the scene. While no explosives were found, a large quantity of fuel was seized. The initial five suspects were released on bail with restrictions, a decision criticized by US President Donald Trump but defended by British police as a strategic investigative move.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham suggested Iran played a role in the incident, a sentiment echoed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who cited "clear involvement of a foreign hand." Tehran has vehemently denied these allegations, calling them "malicious and baseless speculations."

RAF Fairford is a sensitive military facility and a forward base for the US Air Force in Europe. In recent months, US strategic bombers have departed from the base for operations against Iranian targets in the Middle East, a fact that Tehran has reportedly labeled the base a "legitimate target." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Israel provided intelligence to London that helped thwart the operation, criticizing the British government for imposing sanctions on Israel shortly thereafter.