Five men arrested for allegedly plotting a terror attack on a British air base used by the U.S. Air Force for Iran missions are all British nationals living in London, police confirmed Monday. The individuals, aged between 23 and 25, were taken into custody early Sunday morning near Royal Air Force Fairford, located approximately 90 miles from London. At the time of their arrest, they were reportedly in possession of three vans filled with explosives.
Authorities are actively investigating the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including the arrested men's knowledge and any potential motivations. The operation is being examined for possible links to Iran, though the Iranian regime has categorically denied any involvement.
An embassy statement from Iran in London condemned what it called "unfounded and malicious speculations" following the raid. The statement further asserted that "the circulation of such fabricated speculations, particularly in the aftermath of the criminal acts of aggression committed by the United States and the Israeli regime against the Iranian people, will serve no purpose other than to fuel Iranophobia propaganda in the UK."
The suspected plot was reportedly foiled when a local farmer observed the vans containing men described as "Middle Eastern-looking" and wearing masks and balaclavas. The vehicles were found on a secluded country lane near the village of Whelford in Gloucester.