UK Police Arrest Dual National in RAF Fairford Terror Plot Probe

British counterterrorism police arrested a 27-year-old dual UK-Iranian national in London on Thursday on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts.

A second British man, 26, was questioned under caution, and officers searched two properties in Westminster. This marks the sixth arrest in connection with a suspected plot near RAF Fairford in western England. Five British men in their mid-20s were arrested on Sunday near the air base on suspicion of terrorism and explosive offenses, then released on police bail Monday.

Police found petrol but no explosive devices in vans near the base. Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, Vicki Evans, stated the investigation is hugely complex and is considering all possible angles, including foreign state involvement. Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Wednesday there were strong indications Iran played a part in the incident.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Israel provided Britain intelligence about an "Iranian-sponsored attack" before the incident, stating this occurred shortly before the UK imposed sanctions on Israel. Iran's foreign ministry summoned British Ambassador Hugo Shorter on Thursday, protesting Burnham's remarks. Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Majid Takht-Ravanchi rejected the false and ridiculous claims and demanded an official explanation.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed the allegations, stating Burnham was barking up the wrong tree. RAF Fairford has been used by US bombers for operations against Iran, including defensive strikes and during the US-Israeli war on Iran.