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Counter-terror police arrest UK-Iranian dual national in Westminster over RAF Fairford 'attack plot'

From the Newshound archive · first published 2 October 2026 · last updated 3 October 2026.

Five suspects detained near RAF Fairford on suspicion of terror offences. Petrol but no explosives were found in three suspicious vans; counter-terror police are examining foreign state involvement in the plot.
Five suspects detained near RAF Fairford on suspicion of terror offences. Petrol but no explosives were found in three suspicious vans; counter-terror police are examining foreign state involvement in the plot.

Counter-terror officers have detained a 25-year-old UK-Iranian dual national in Westminster on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts, making him the sixth person arrested in connection with an alleged plot to attack RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire — the base that houses US bombers flying missions over the Strait of Hormuz. Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed that two properties were searched and cautioned that the inquiry, which may involve foreign state actors, remains "hugely complex."

Five other men in their mid-20s were arrested near the base on 27 September; all remain on police bail after petrol-filled vans were discovered in the vicinity in what investigators believe constituted a 'dry run.'

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said there are 'strong indications' Iran played a part, while Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu claims Israel handed Britain intelligence about the Iranian-sponsored plot.

Trump publicly criticised British authorities for bailing the original five suspects, while analysts are divided over whether the operation shows signs of Iranian state direction or amateur freelancing.

MoreEvening StandardUK-Iranian national arrested in London on suspicion of preparation of terror acts over RAF base 'attack plot'MetroTerror police arrest Iranian, 27, in London raids linked to RAF Fairford plotYahoo News UKUK-Iranian dual national arrested over suspected RAF Fairford terror plotAl JazeeraUK arrests British-Iranian suspect over RAF ‘plot’: What we know - Al JazeeraLondon Evening Standard on MSNIran-UK man arrested in London over 'preparing terror act' on RAF baseOxford MailSixth man arrested in suspected RAF Fairford 'terror plot'Financial Times‘Amateurism and organisation’: Iran’s potential role in RAF Fairford incident
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