Araghchi Rejects UK Claim Linking Iran to RAF Fairford Incident

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has rejected British Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s statement linking Iran to a security incident near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.

Burnham said there were “strong indications” that Iran had played a role in the incident, while stressing that the investigation remained ongoing. Five British men in their 20s were arrested near the airbase over suspected terrorism and explosives offences and were later released on bail.

Responding to Burnham’s remarks, Araghchi denied Iranian involvement and said Britain was looking in the wrong direction. He also questioned the decision to release individuals who were being investigated over possible links to foreign actors.

British authorities have said the investigation is continuing and are examining whether the suspects may have been acting on behalf of a foreign state. Officials have not publicly provided details establishing Iran’s alleged role in the incident.

The incident took place near RAF Fairford, an airbase used by US military aircraft. British authorities have said the case remains a live and complex investigation as inquiries continue into the circumstances surrounding the arrests.

Araghchi’s response marks a direct rejection of the British government’s position, leaving the alleged Iranian connection subject to the ongoing investigation.