British police foil possible attack near air base?
British police on Monday questioned five men detained on suspicion of explosives-related offenses and preparing a terrorist act near the Fairford air base, which the United States used for operations against Iran.
Reuters reports this.
Three of the men were detained by law enforcement officers on Sunday morning after receiving information about three large white vans heading toward the air base.
A local farmer contacted the police after she noticed a group of "men in hoods and masks" running into the fields.
British counterterrorism detectives have not yet disclosed exactly who they believe was involved in the incident. At the same time, a source familiar with the investigation said that the most likely version is that of a motive linked to Iran. Other versions are being considered simultaneously, including a possible Russian sabotage operation or an Islamist attack.
British Defense Minister Wes Streeting said he would not speculate about the motives, since the investigation is ongoing.
At the same time, speaking about the overall threat from Iran, he noted that the British authorities are aware of Tehran's desire to inflict damage on the United Kingdom.
