UK-Iranian dual national arrested over security incident at US-run RAF Fairford

LONDON (AP) — Counterterrorism police in London have arrested a 27-year-old dual U.K.-Iranian national on suspicion of plotting a terrorist attack following a security incident at a U.S.-run military air base in England, authorities said.

The man was detained Thursday in London, and officers searched two properties in the capital, Counter Terrorism Policing said. A 26-year-old British national was interviewed under caution but was not arrested.

The arrest is the latest development in an investigation that began after the incident at RAF Fairford. On Sunday, five men in their 20s, all from London, were arrested in connection with the episode and later released on bail.

RAF Fairford, in Gloucestershire, is a Royal Air Force station used by the U.S. military and has hosted American bomber aircraft involved in strikes on Iran. The base's role in U.S. operations has made it a sensitive target in the broader standoff between Washington and Tehran.

Vicki Evans, the senior national coordinator for counterterrorism policing, described the investigation as "hugely complex," saying specialist teams were pursuing multiple lines of inquiry. "As we've made clear, we're looking at all possible angles — including possible foreign state involvement," she said.

British officials have said the U.K. sees "strong indications" that Iran played a part in the incident. Iran denies involvement. The case is expected to sharpen scrutiny of security at U.S. military installations in Britain and of suspected foreign interference on U.K. soil. No charges have been announced, and police have not named any suspects.