New Actor: Counterterrorism police probe possible Iranian links to RAF Fairford plot

Counterterrorism detectives are investigating whether the alleged plot had a link to Iran. They are also examining lines of inquiry pointing to Russia or to non-state groups, including whether proxies or unwitting individuals acted for a foreign state. Iran has denied involvement.

The five suspects, all British nationals from London in their 20s, were released on bail Monday under stringent conditions after arrests on suspected explosives offenses and on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. They remain under investigation.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham chaired a COBRA meeting as police work around three white vans continued. Residents from 85 homes near the scene were allowed to return on Monday afternoon, though a cordon stayed in place, and the arrests followed a late-night call about suspicious vehicles near RAF Fairford.

AI-synthesized from multiple reported sources