Barking Up The Wrong Tree: Iran Rejects UK Claim Of Role In RAF Fairford Incident

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has rejected the UK’s claim that Tehran played a part in the suspected security incident near RAF Fairford, after British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said there were “strong indications” of Iranian involvement. Araghchi accused Britain of “barking up the wrong tree” as counter-terrorism police continue investigating five British men arrested near the airbase.

“I can confirm Iran's belief that releasing supposed terrorists working for foreign states really says it all,” Araghchi said on X, referring to the suspects being released on bail. “You're barking up the wrong tree,” he added. Iran’s embassy in London had earlier denied any involvement.

The incident began in the early hours of September 27, when three vans were found blocking a road near RAF Fairford in Whelford, Gloucestershire. A local woman reported seeing several men, some wearing masks, near the vehicles and called emergency services at around 1:36am. Five British men from London, aged between 23 and 25, were subsequently arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and preparing a terrorist act.

One of the five suspects had reportedly contacted police himself around an hour before the woman’s 999 call, according to reports. Investigators are considering several possibilities, including whether the incident involved surveillance, a “dry run” to test security or an attempt to send a message. Police have not publicly confirmed the circumstances of the call.

Counter-terrorism police said no explosives were found in the three vans, although a quantity of petrol was recovered. Authorities are investigating multiple lines of inquiry, including whether individuals or proxies may have been acting knowingly or unknowingly on behalf of a foreign state. No public conclusion has been reached on the motive or whether the incident was state-backed.

Burnham said there were “strong indications” Iran played a part and that Britain was working closely with the US. He did not disclose the evidence behind the assessment. The comments came a day after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the incident “clearly” involved a foreign actor, while President Donald Trump criticised the decision to release the suspects on bail.

The suspects remain under strict bail conditions and under investigation. RAF Fairford has been used by US aircraft for operations against Iran, making the incident particularly sensitive amid the ongoing conflict.