British authorities apprehended five individuals close to a U.S. airbase on suspicion of terrorism and explosive-related offenses following a tip about three vans heading towards the military installation utilized for operations against Iran.
President Donald Trump disclosed that the suspects were planning a significant attack and had been under scrutiny by U.S. and British agencies. The counterterrorism unit leading the probe received information about three suspicious vehicles moving towards RAF Fairford in western England early on Sunday.
Armed officers arrested the five men, detaining them for alleged preparation of a terrorist act. The authorities stated that the situation was now under control. Counter Terrorism Policing’s senior national coordinator, Vicki Evans, mentioned that the investigation was in its initial phases, with the suspects in custody.
A 400-meter cordon was established around the base as bomb disposal units inspected the vans. Local residents were evacuated, and armed officers secured the area. Prime Minister Andy Burnham was briefed on the incident, with the British government authorizing the U.S. to utilize bombers stationed at Fairford for operations against Iranian threats in the Strait of Hormuz.
The suspects’ identities and motives have not been disclosed by the police. Sources close to the investigation suggest an Iranian connection as the likely motive, with considerations also given to a potential Russian or Islamist involvement. President Trump commended the UK authorities for the arrests, emphasizing successful collaboration between the two countries.
Enhanced security measures were observed at other U.S.-used bases in England, with heightened patrols and armored vehicles deployed at RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall. Gloucestershire police declared a major incident, maintaining a cordon as a precautionary measure.
The U.S. Air Force declined to discuss specific security protocols, focusing on maintaining the safety of personnel and installations. British officials have previously warned critical infrastructure providers about threats from Russia, citing concerns about potential sabotage and cyberattacks. Russia has denied any involvement in hybrid attacks on Western nations.
In a separate incident in June 2025, the Palestine Action protest group breached a British military airbase, later designated as a terrorist organization.