US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has suggested that a suspected terror plot involving RAF Fairford may have been linked to a foreign actor, as investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Speaking in an interview with Fox News, Rubio said the case appeared to highlight ongoing threats facing American interests overseas and referenced concerns about hostile actors targeting US facilities and personnel abroad. However, he did not provide evidence or specific details to support the claim.
The comments came after a major security incident was declared at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire over the weekend when “suspicious vehicles” were reportedly seen near the military base, which has recently been used by US forces for operations in the Middle East.
Authorities evacuated dozens of nearby homes after police received reports about three vehicles in the area during the early hours of Sunday morning.
Five men, all British nationals in their 20s, were subsequently arrested on suspicion of terrorism-related offences. They were later released on bail while investigations continue.
On Monday, Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP), said investigators were examining all possible motives and connections, including whether individuals may have been acting on behalf of a foreign state, either knowingly or unknowingly.
Rubio described the incident as a serious matter and indicated that additional information could emerge as the investigation progresses. He said authorities were continuing to assess the situation but declined to discuss specific intelligence or evidence.
Iran has strongly denied any involvement. The Iranian Embassy in London rejected suggestions linking Tehran to the incident, describing such allegations as unfounded and condemning speculation regarding the country’s role.
RAF Fairford has served as a key operational location for the United States Air Force (USAF) for decades. In recent months, the base has been used by American bombers involved in operations related to regional tensions in the Middle East following UK approval for US use of the facility in what British officials described as defensive ac
On Monday, Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP), said investigators were examining all possible motives and connections, including whether individuals may have been acting on behalf of a foreign state, either knowingly or unknowingly.
Rubio described the incident as a serious matter and indicated that additional information could emerge as the investigation progresses. He said authorities were continuing to assess the situation but declined to discuss specific intelligence or evidence.
Iran has strongly denied any involvement. The Iranian Embassy in London rejected suggestions linking Tehran to the incident, describing such allegations as unfounded and condemning speculation regarding the country’s role.
RAF Fairford has served as a key operational location for the United States Air Force (USAF) for decades. In recent months, the base has been used by American bombers involved in operations related to regional tensions in the Middle East following UK approval for US use of the facility in what British officials described as defensive actions.
Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed that the five suspects, aged between 23 and 25 and from London, remain under investigation. Authorities said their release on bail is subject to strict conditions governing their movements and contact with others.
The investigation remains ongoing, with police and security agencies continuing to assess evidence and determine whether any broader national security concerns are involved.
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