US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said the suspected terror plot at RAF Fairford clearly involved a foreign actor, but he did not provide evidence or further details for the claim.
Speaking in a Fox News interview, Mr Rubio linked the incident to threats from elements including Iran against American interests globally. The Iranian government has strongly denied involvement.
Five men released on bail
A major incident was declared at the weekend after suspicious vehicles were seen near the RAF base in Gloucestershire. Three vehicles were reported to police in the early hours of Sunday morning, prompting the evacuation of dozens of nearby homes.
Five UK nationals in their 20s were arrested on suspicion of terror offences and later released on bail. According to Counter Terrorism Policing, the men, aged between 23 and 25 and from London, remain under investigation. Their release is subject to stringent restrictions on movement and contact with others.
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of Counter Terrorism Policing, said officers were considering all angles, including whether the activity could have been committed by proxies or by individuals knowingly or unknowingly working for a foreign state.
The Iranian embassy in London categorically rejected claims linking Iran to the incident, describing them as unfounded and malicious speculation.
Police cordon remains around base
RAF Fairford has served as a forward operating location for the US Air Force for decades. In recent months, US bombers have taken off from the base for the Middle East after the UK approved a US request to use it for what the government calls defensive strikes on Iran.
Iran said in July that any base used for aggression against Iranian territory would constitute a legitimate target for Iranian forces.
A heavily guarded police cordon remained around RAF Fairford on Tuesday. Residents of nearby Whelford were told they could return home, while police instructed them to stay inside and not take photographs.
Local councillor Tristan Wilkinson said residents felt confused and weary. Fairford residents were worried and somewhat panicked, according to local butcher Andrew Butler.
Donald Trump said he was surprised that the five men had been released on bail and said he would not have allowed them to receive bail.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham chaired a Cobra meeting on Monday and urged people not to speculate while authorities established the full facts.
Related: Five arrested near RAF Fairford released on police bail as terrorism investigation continues
Source: BBC News
