A 25-year-old dual British-Iranian national was released on bail Saturday following his arrest in connection with a security incident at the U.S.-run RAF Fairford air base in Gloucestershire. The man was arrested in London on Thursday on suspicion of plotting a terror attack.
The arrest follows a separate incident on Oct. 27, when five British men in their 20s were detained near the same base on suspicion of explosives and terrorism offenses. Police reported finding gasoline in three vans linked to those five suspects but stated no explosives were recovered. All five of those individuals have also been released on bail.
Counter Terrorism Policing searched two properties in London as part of the investigation into the 25-year-old. While authorities initially stated a 26-year-old British national had been interviewed under caution, officials later corrected that statement, clarifying that the interview did not occur.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated there are "strong indications" that Iran was involved in the incident at the base, which has been used by the U.S. military for operations in the Middle East. The Iranian Embassy in London issued a statement rejecting these claims, describing them as "unfounded and malicious speculations."
The investigation involves six individuals currently on bail—five British nationals and one dual British-Iranian national. The base, located approximately 100 miles west of London, serves as a hub for American bombers. Counter Terrorism Policing stated specialist teams are investigating multiple lines of inquiry regarding potential foreign state involvement.
While the suspects have been released on bail, they remain under investigation for terror-related offenses. The decision to grant bail drew criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while some in the U.K. questioned if the initial law enforcement response was an overreaction.
If ties to Tehran are confirmed, the incident could influence future U.K.-Iran policy and security cooperation between London and Washington. Specific court dates or deadlines for the conclusion of the investigation have not been reported.