Iran has rejected British accusations that its Revolutionary Guard directed a suspected plot at a UK airbase used by US bombers.
Key facts
- •Iran’s ambassador to the UK, Ali Mousavi, demanded evidence to substantiate the British government's claims.
- •Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated the plot was 'almost certainly' directed by the IRGC.
- •Seven suspects arrested in connection with the September 27 incident have been released on bail without charge.
- •The US withdrew its B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford following the security scare.
- •Twenty-nine nations released a joint statement denouncing Iran's alleged use of hybrid activities and violent attacks.
Iran’s ambassador to Britain, Ali Mousavi, formally denied any Iranian involvement in a suspected plot targeting RAF Fairford on September 27. The denial followed accusations from British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who stated it was highly likely the operation was coordinated in Iran and directed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
British Government Response and Sanctions
Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced new sanctions against Iran, vowing to target the country's use of criminal networks and funding streams. The British Foreign Office also designated two Iranian nationals, including Ruhollah Bazghandi, the IRGC's head of counterespionage, for their alleged role in facilitating hostile activities. These individuals are now subject to asset freezes and travel bans.
Investigation into the September Incident
The incident at RAF Fairford occurred on September 27 after a local farmer reported suspicious activity involving several vans near the base. Police arrested seven individuals, including a British-Iranian national, but all were subsequently released on police bail without charge. While police discovered petrol in the vehicles, no viable explosives were found. Following the event, the US withdrew its B-1 bombers from the site.
International Reaction
A group of 29 countries, including the US, Australia, Canada, France, and Germany, issued a joint statement condemning Iran’s alleged use of violent attacks, including sabotage and lethal plotting. The statement declared that any Iranian attempt to threaten or intimidate people on their territories is unacceptable.
Timeline
- September 27Seven individuals were arrested near RAF Fairford following reports of suspicious activity.
- Last weekThe US withdrew its B-1 bombers from the airbase.
- MondayPrime Minister Andy Burnham addressed Parliament and the UK Foreign Office summoned the Iranian ambassador.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by The New Arab, Al-Monitor.
