The investigation into a security incident near RAF Fairford in western England has taken an international dimension after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a foreign actor was involved.
Speaking to Fox News on Monday, Rubio described the incident as serious and said it “clearly involves the hands of a foreign actor.”
The US diplomat did not name the country or organisation allegedly involved. He also said there was more information that he could not disclose at the time.
Five men released on police bail
Five British men in their 20s were arrested near RAF Fairford on Sunday after police were alerted to suspicious vehicles in the area.
The men were detained on suspicion of explosives-related offences and preparation of a terrorist act.
After extensive interviews and inquiries, British counter-terrorism police released all five on bail. Authorities said they remain suspects and are still under investigation.
Police have also imposed conditions on their movements and contact with other people while inquiries continue.
Investigators keeping an open mind
British authorities have not publicly confirmed that a foreign government was responsible for the incident.
Laurence Taylor, the head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, said investigators were examining “every possible angle”.
Among the possibilities being considered is whether individuals may have acted as proxies for a foreign state, either knowingly or unknowingly.
The investigation is taking place against the backdrop of heightened tensions involving Iran and US military interests.
Rubio mentioned Iran when discussing threats against American interests globally. However, he did not establish a direct link between Tehran and the events at Fairford. Iran has denied involvement.
Residents evacuated during security operation
The incident triggered a major security response around RAF Fairford.
Nearby residents were temporarily evacuated while police and specialist teams examined three suspicious vehicles and secured the area.
The base has been used by US forces and has played a role in American military operations involving Iran. That connection has increased international attention surrounding the investigation.
Rubio said further details could emerge in the coming days, but British investigators have yet to publicly identify the alleged foreign actor or establish the precise motive behind the incident.
The investigation therefore remains ongoing.
