Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran
Tehran, Oct 2: Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Thursday rejected the British government's claim that Iran had “played a part” in a recent security incident near RAF Fairford, a base in southwest England used by the US Air Force.
British police on Sunday detained five men, all in their 20s, on suspicion of explosives and terrorism offences in the Gloucestershire countryside near the airbase after receiving information that three vans had been seen heading towards the facility. The suspects were later released on police bail as investigations continued.
Araghchi issued the denial in a post on X, a day after British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said there were “strong indications” that Iran had played a part in the incident, while stressing that the investigation remained ongoing, complex and serious.
Referring to Burnham's remarks, Araghchi said, “I can confirm Iran's belief that releasing supposed terrorists working for foreign states really says it all. You're barking up the wrong tree.”
British authorities have said the investigation includes possible foreign-state involvement. Petrol was reportedly found in the vans, but no explosive devices were discovered.
On Thursday, British counter-terrorism police also arrested a dual UK-Iranian national in London in connection with the investigation, while another man was questioned under caution. The earlier five suspects remain on bail and no charges have been reported against them.
Britain's decision to release the five suspects on bail drew criticism from US officials, including President Donald Trump. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also said he had been “disturbed” by the decision.
Trump separately said the United States would win its war with Iran “very quickly”, while claiming that Tehran's military capabilities had been severely degraded and that Washington had established “virtually total control” over the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Trump made the remarks on Wednesday local time during a White House event marking National Hispanic Heritage Month, where he discussed foreign policy issues including Iraq, Iran and Venezuela before turning to the theme of the celebration.
The UK’s allegation remains disputed, with Iranian officials denying involvement and the British investigation still ongoing.