A dual U.K.-Iranian national arrested earlier this week on suspicion of plotting a terror attack near the U.S.-run RAF Fairford air base in England was released on bail on Saturday. The 25-year-old man was taken into custody in London on Thursday, prompting counterterrorism police to search two properties in the capital. The security incident has been linked by British authorities to Tehran, though the investigation remains ongoing. Counter Terrorism Policing stated that inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the Gloucestershire events are continuing. Police previously reported that a second 26-year-old British national was interviewed under caution, but later clarified that statement was incorrect. This follows the October 27 arrests of five British men in their 20s near the same air base on suspicion of explosives and terror offenses. Those suspects were also released on bail, drawing criticism from President Trump and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while sparking debate in Britain over whether authorities overreacted. Investigators found gasoline in three vans linked to the five suspects, but no explosives. Vicki Evans, the senior national coordinator for counterterrorism policing, noted that the investigation is extremely complex and explores all possible angles, including potential foreign state involvement. Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that the U.K. sees strong indications that Iran played a part in the incident, a claim that Iran strongly denies. The Iranian Embassy in London issued a statement categorically rejecting the speculations linking the regime to the incident. RAF Fairford, located 100 miles west of London, has been utilized by American bombers during Middle East conflicts, including recent military actions involving Iran. Iranian authorities previously warned that any bases used to attack their country would be treated as legitimate targets. Prime Minister Burnham emphasized that officials are maintaining tight control over the investigation and communicating closely with American counterparts. British officials have previously expressed concern that Iran-linked proxies are orchestrating arsons and attacks across Western nations to sow fear, warning that Tehran might expand its operations as Middle East tensions persist.
Source: cbsnews.com
