British counter-terrorism police have launched an investigation into a possible plot to bomb a UK airbase used by US forces, with Iran emerging as a prime suspect. The probe was sparked by the arrest of five individuals near the RAF Firthford base in Gloucestershire, England. Authorities have confirmed that the suspects were taken into custody on suspicion of explosives-related offenses.
According to reports, the police were alerted to the situation around 12:45 am on Sunday, following a tip-off about three suspicious vehicles heading towards the airbase. The base, which is used by US forces, was placed on high alert, and a number of nearby homes were evacuated as a precautionary measure. A total of 85 families were advised to leave their homes, with some relocated to a nearby leisure center.
The arrested individuals are being held on suspicion of committing offenses under the Explosives Act. While police have not confirmed whether the arrests are directly linked to the airbase, they have stated that counter-terrorism units are leading the investigation. The suspects are believed to have been under surveillance for some time prior to their arrest.
US President Donald Trump has commented on the incident, stating that the arrests were made in collaboration with British authorities. Trump claimed that the suspects had been planning to cause significant damage to the base, adding that they had been monitored for some time before being taken into custody.
The incident has raised concerns about the potential threat posed by Iran to UK and US military installations. While police are exploring several possible motives, the Iranian connection is currently considered the most likely. The investigation is ongoing, with military bomb disposal experts examining several vehicles.
RAF Firthford is a key base for US forces in the UK, and the incident has highlighted the need for close cooperation between British and US authorities on security matters. The US Air Force has confirmed that it is working closely with British counterparts to ensure the base's security.
The police have confirmed that the situation has been brought under control, with the arrested individuals in custody and the nearby area deemed safe. The investigation is expected to continue, with authorities working to determine the full extent of the plot and any potential links to Iran.
Key points
- The British police investigation is focused on a possible Iranian link to a plot to bomb a UK airbase used by US forces.
- Five individuals were arrested near the RAF Firthford base on suspicion of explosives-related offenses.
- The incident has raised concerns about the potential threat posed by Iran to UK and US military installations.
