Iran link to RAF base plot ‘highly likely’

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, October 13, 2026

British authorities have identified Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps as “highly likely” behind a failed terrorist plot involving petrol-filled vans and plans for drone attacks targeting RAF Fairford, a key military airbase used by the U.S. Air Force. In response, the UK has imposed sanctions on Iranian operatives and garnered international support to counter Iran’s hostile activities, while continuing investigations into foreign threats on British soil.

British authorities have indicated that Iran is “highly likely” to be behind an alleged terrorist plot targeting RAF Fairford, a military airbase in Gloucestershire, England. Prime Minister Andy Burnham conveyed this assessment in parliament, describing the operation as “almost certainly” directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC).

The incident occurred on September 27, when police responded to reports of three suspicious vans parked near the airbase in the early hours. Although no explosives were found in the vehicles, investigators discovered petrol inside. Seven men were arrested in connection with the incident, but all have since been released on bail, and no charges have been filed.

RAF Fairford has strategic significance as it has been used by the U.S. Air Force to launch bombing raids against Iran. Following the alleged plot, the U.S. withdrew its bomber fleet from the airbase. Former U.S. President Donald Trump explained that the move was in response to a specific threat, though he did not name Iran directly.

British officials allege that a branch of the IRGC sought to recruit British nationals to carry out the plot. Reports also indicate the plan involved creating a diversion and deploying drones to swarm the airfield. The UK government has vowed to take robust action against Iran’s use of criminal networks, employing its full range of powers to disrupt their activities and funding.

In response to the plot, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband summoned the Iranian ambassador to express that Britain would not tolerate such threats on its soil. Miliband revealed that two Iranian citizens had been designated for their involvement in hostile activities linked to the Iranian regime: Ruhollah Bazghandi, head of counterespionage operations within the IRGC, and Shahram Ali Reza Tamarzadeh Jakki, identified as a facilitator of the Zindashti criminal network. Both individuals are subject to immediate asset freezes, travel bans, and director disqualifications.

Following the UK’s announcement, foreign ministers from 29 countries—including the United States, France, Germany, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand—issued a joint statement condemning Iran’s use of violent and hybrid tactics, including plotting lethal attacks, arson, sabotage, and cyber-attacks.

Iran has denied any involvement in the alleged plot. British officials continue to investigate the case as authorities monitor potential threats linked to foreign interference and terrorist activities on UK soil.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.