UK-Iran national arrested over alleged bomb plot at RAF Fairford released on bail

British counter-terrorism officers have granted bail to a 25-year-old dual British-Iranian citizen detained in connection with a suspected plot targeting the RAF Fairford airbase in Gloucestershire.

The suspect, who was arrested on Thursday in the London borough of Westminster, was held under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006 on suspicion of preparing acts of terrorism. Investigators confirmed that property searches at two London addresses have now concluded, though the broader inquiry remains active.

His detention followed the arrest and subsequent bailing of five other British men, all in their mid-20s, who were apprehended the previous weekend. Those earlier arrests occurred after security personnel noticed three suspicious vans in the vicinity of the military installation. A subsequent inspection of the vehicles uncovered petrol, though no actual explosive devices were discovered.

Authorities have noted the potential involvement of an external government in the matter. Vicki Evans, the senior national coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, described the operation as "hugely complex" and confirmed that detectives are exploring several avenues, including "possible foreign state involvement."

Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that there are "strong indications" suggesting the Iranian state had a role in the incident near the Gloucestershire installation. RAF Fairford has recently hosted American military bombers, following clearance granted under former Prime Minister Keir Starmer allowing US forces to operate from UK airfields for defensive actions against Tehran.

International officials have also commented on the investigation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that Israeli intelligence services provided the United Kingdom with details regarding the alleged plot. Netanyahu described the incident as an Iranian-backed operation, stating the warning was delivered just prior to the UK government declaring an import ban on goods from illegal West Bank settlements. Police have not issued further public updates regarding any formal charges.