Authorities foiled what appeared to be a planned terror attack targeting R. A. F.

Fairford air base in southern England, which hosts American bombers conducting strikes on Iran. Prime Minister Andy Burnham urged the public not to speculate while the investigation continues. Five men were arrested on Sunday morning, prompting the evacuation of 85 families nearby as bomb disposal robots examined three white vans.

A local farmer reported seeing a large group of hooded and masked men near the base, sparking questions about whether security services were aware of the plot beforehand. Defense Secretary Wes Streeting praised the farmer’s vigilance but noted she had only a partial view of events. President Trump praised British authorities and suggested the suspects had been under investigation, though UK officials did not confirm prior knowledge of the threat.

The incident has intensified scrutiny of the base’s security and its role in U.S.-led operations against Iran, especially following Iran’s warning that the base would be a legitimate target. Former Prime Minister Keir Starmer initially blocked British bases from being used for strikes but reversed his stance after Iranian drone attacks on regional allies.