Iran Suspected in Foiled Bomb Plot Targeting British Air Base Used by U.S.

A suspected Iranian plot to attack a British air base was foiled after observant details on vans tipped off authorities, officials have indicated. Three vans carrying explosives were stopped approximately 350 yards from RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, a base utilized by U.S. forces for air operations, including strikes against Iran.

A farmer alerted police to the suspicious vehicles, noting that the phone number and lettering on one van appeared inauthentic. The van featured the name "Fuel 2You" in red text. This contrasted with the branding of a legitimate company, "Fuel2U," based in Beaconsfield, which uses green and black colors. Additionally, the phone number displayed on the suspicious van, 0742 418 2599, was formatted in a 434 spacing, a style predominantly used in Iran, unlike the 533 or 56 format common in the UK for mobile numbers. The number is no longer in service.

Observers also noted the incongruity of using red for a fuel supplier's logo, as red is the color of petrol pumps in Iran, whereas UK pumps are typically green. Fuel2U, the legitimate company, has stated it has no connection to the incident and expressed concern over its name being misused.

The farmer reported that the vans were blocking the road, and she saw a group of men in hooded attire and balaclavas. She believes her actions in calling the police may have disrupted the individuals' plans. Police arrived on the scene approximately 15 minutes after her call. A cordon was established, and over 80 households were evacuated and unable to return to their homes.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting thanked the resident for her vigilance, though he cautioned that her account provided only a partial picture. U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the incident, stating that the alleged plotters were "looking to do big damage" and praised the "amazing job" done by U.S. and British authorities working together.