British counterterrorism detectives detained five men in their 20s early Sunday near RAF Fairford after suspected explosives were discovered inside three white vans parked close to the United States-operated air base in southern England.
The five British nationals from London were initially held on suspicion of explosive offenses before being arrested on suspicion of preparing an act of terrorism.
Local authorities evacuated 85 homes in the neighboring village of Whelford while army bomb-disposal experts deployed a remote robot to inspect the vehicles.
A local farmer told the BBC she contacted law enforcement after spotting a large group of hooded and masked men in nearby fields early Sunday morning.
Under counterterrorism laws, British authorities can hold the suspects in custody for up to 14 days without charge.
Investigation Examines Possible State Links
Investigators are examining potential connections to Iran, Russia, or non-state-backed militant groups, though official conclusions regarding state involvement remain pending.
The Iranian embassy in London released a statement addressing the ongoing investigation.
"categorically rejects and strongly condemns the recent unfounded and malicious speculations" said Iran's London embassy.
RAF Fairford has served as a launch point for American B-1 and B-52 bombers during Middle East operations.
In March, former Prime Minister Keir Starmer granted the U. S.
permission to utilize British bases for defensive actions against Iranian targets after initial refusals.
Former Prime Minister Keir Starmer characterized the permitted strikes as "defensive" operations aimed at Iranian missiles and launch sites following attacks on United Kingdom interests and regional allies.
Hostile state activity cases handled by British intelligence surged by 50 percent in the six months leading to December 2025.
Security officials previously cautioned that Iranian proxies conducted arson and sabotage incidents across Europe, primarily targeting Jewish communities.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham addressed the public on Monday regarding the status of the investigation near the perimeter.
"The investigation remains ongoing," said Burnham, Prime Minister.
He urged residents to allow law enforcement officials time to complete their inquiry.
"establish the full facts," said Burnham, Prime Minister.
United States President Donald Trump commented on the joint law enforcement operation during a press briefing in Chicago.
"under view" said Trump, President.
He praised the cooperative effort between American and British intelligence agencies in disrupting the suspected plot.
"It was an amazing job. We had them under investigation.
They were looking to do big damage to our fort. And working with the British worked out great," said Trump, President.
British Defense Secretary Wes Streeting expressed appreciation for the international coordination on Times Radio.
"it was a proud moment" said Streeting, Defense Secretary.
He noted that the U. S.
president had recognized the routine efforts of national security forces.
"the work that our police and intelligence services do every day," said Streeting, Defense Secretary.
Streeting pledged to provide further updates as details emerge.
"As and when we can, we will report back to the public about these individuals and about the nature of the threat," said Streeting, Defense Secretary.
British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband highlighted the broader security context during public remarks on Monday.
"reminder of the threats our country faces." said Miliband, Foreign Secretary.
Miliband previously met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi at the United Nations in New York to deliver a formal warning.
"Britain will not tolerate intimidation, threats or hostile activity on U. K.
soil," said Miliband, Foreign Secretary.
Military authorities at the airfield confirmed that on-site personnel maintained heightened security protocols.
"remain vigilant," said U. S.
Air Force statement.
Base commanders declined to outline precise protective measures implemented at the facility.
"for operational security reasons we will not discuss specific force protection measures." said U.
S. Air Force statement.
The U. S.
Embassy in London issued a safety advisory urging American citizens traveling or residing in the United Kingdom to maintain heightened personal security precautions.
