British police arrest dual national as Iran linked to RAF Fairford terror plot

British counter‑terrorism police arrested a dual UK‑Iranian national on May 10, 2026, on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts connected to an alleged Iranian‑sponsored attack on RAF Fairford, the Royal Air Force base that hosts United States bomber aircraft.

The arrest follows statements from British authorities that "strong indications" link Iran to the incident, and from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said Israeli intelligence warned Britain in advance of the plot.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham told lawmakers the attack was "highly likely to have been coordinated in Iran, almost certainly directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps," echoing remarks previously made by former President Donald Trump that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard was involved.

Iran has denied any involvement, and the investigation continues. The United Kingdom has summoned Iran’s ambassador and imposed sanctions on two suspected operatives, identified by the German Press Agency as Ruhollah Bazghandi, head of IRGC counter‑espionage, and Shahram Ali Reza Tamarzadeh Jakki of the Zindashti criminal network.

Although the dual national was detained, the other suspects arrested in the foiled plot—most described as young UK nationals—have been released on bail, and no formal charges have been filed yet.

The incident has prompted the United States to relocate its B‑1 bomber fleet from RAF Fairford, citing heightened security concerns. British officials warned that the episode underscores a broader strategy by Iran to target critical infrastructure and overseas military assets.

Authorities say the investigation remains active, with further diplomatic measures and possible additional sanctions under consideration as Britain seeks to deter future attempts against its soil.