UK Accuses Iran of Plot Against U.S. Air Base
British PM claims Iran directed plot targeting RAF Fairford, as 30+ nations condemn Tehran’s hostile actions.
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British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has accused Iran of directing a suspected plot targeting RAF Fairford, a U.S.-run military air base in England. Burnham told lawmakers that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps “almost certainly” coordinated the attack, which was reportedly thwarted in late September.
International Condemnation of Iran’s Hostile Actions
The United States, United Kingdom, and 30 other countries issued a joint statement condemning Iran’s use of violence, including alleged lethal plots, arson, sabotage, cyberattacks, and other hostile activities against them and their partners. The statement emphasized that any attempt by Iran to threaten, silence, intimidate, or harm people on their territories through proxies is unacceptable.
Investigation and Arrests
The investigation into the suspected plot has resulted in seven arrests, but all suspects have been released on bail, and no charges have been filed. The suspects, all in their 20s, include six British nationals and one with dual British-Iranian citizenship. The probe began after a local farmer reported suspicious vehicles and men near RAF Fairford on Sept. 27.
U.S. Military Withdraws B-1 Bombers
The U.S. military withdrew all 12 B-1 bombers deployed to RAF Fairford last week, citing new warnings about a potential Iran-backed attack. The U.S. commanders reportedly received intelligence about an Iranian-sponsored attack, which led to the rapid departure of the aircraft and their crews.
Iran Denies Involvement
Iran has denied involvement in the suspected plot. Its embassy in London previously stated it “categorically rejects and strongly condemns” speculation linking Tehran to the incident. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Israel provided Britain with intelligence about a potential Iranian-sponsored attack.
Global Response to Recent Attacks
The joint statement referenced a recent campaign of attacks across Europe targeting Jewish communities, Iranian journalists, and U.S. interests. These attacks were claimed by Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya, known as HAYI. The signatories of the statement included major Western democracies, emphasizing their unity in addressing Iran’s hostile actions.
Source: Daily Wire
