UK police arrest dual British-Iranian national over RAF Fairford incident

British counterterrorism police on Thursday arrested a 27-year-old dual British-Iranian national in Westminster on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts linked to a security incident near RAF Fairford. Police searched two London properties and questioned a 26-year-old British man under caution. Five British men in their 20s from London were arrested Sunday near the base after reports of three suspicious vans travelling toward it; they were released on police bail under strict conditions. Searches found a quantity of petrol but no explosive devices. Vicki Evans said the investigation is “hugely complex” and teams are “looking at all possible angles - including possible foreign state involvement.” Andy Burnham said there were “strong indications” Iran played a role. Iran has denied involvement and summoned the British ambassador in Tehran on Thursday over the allegations. US officials raised concerns over the case and the decision to release the five on bail. RAF Fairford, roughly 160 km west of London, is used by the US Air Force, including for operations against Iran. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned in July that British bases used for attacks on Iran could be considered legitimate targets. The investigation is ongoing, and no evidence establishing responsibility has been made public.