Dual British-Iranian National Arrested Following Terror Threat at US Base
British counter-terrorism police have arrested a man with dual British-Iranian citizenship in connection with an incident near a United States (US) airbase. The arrest follows alleged terror threats near the US base, which is utilised for operations against Iran.
According to AFP on Friday (2/10/2026), the arrest occurred after British Prime Minister Andy Burnham told the BBC that there were strong indications that Iran played a role in the events that took place last weekend at RAF Fairford, a base used by the US military in the war against Iran.
The UK Counter-Terrorism Police Unit stated that a 25-year-old man, a dual British/Iranian national, has been arrested in Westminster, London, on suspicion of preparing acts of terrorism.
Police were called to the base in the Cotswolds region late last week, triggering the evacuation of nearby villagers and the declaration of a major incident.
A farmer living in the village of Whelford, near the airbase, contacted the police after observing several vans blocking the road and a group of masked men.
Police arrested five British nationals based in London, all men in their 20s, at the scene and inspected several vehicles. The five men were subsequently released on bail, a decision that has drawn criticism from US authorities.
Police later revealed that no explosives were found at the scene, and the exact nature of the threat has not yet been clarified by the authorities.
Adding to the mystery of the situation, British media reported that officers received information regarding the incident from one of the initial suspects, though police have not yet commented on these reports.
Vicki Evans, a senior national coordinator for counter-terrorism police, stated that the investigation is highly complex and that police are exploring all possible angles, including the potential involvement of a foreign state.
The Iranian Embassy in London previously firmly rejected and strongly condemned speculation regarding their involvement, while Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Burnham’s allegations were misplaced.