A branch of the IRGC recruited British nationals for an operation involving multiple steps, including a diversion near the base, a senior US official told the Journal. British officials cautioned that there was no evidence Iran could carry out such an elaborate operation against Fairford. The Pentagon confirmed the bombers had returned to their American home stations but declined to comment on the plot. Vice President JD Vance said the move was made “out of an abundance of caution trying to protect our guys.”
All six men arrested in the investigation, including a dual British-Iranian national, have been released on bail and remain under investigation. None has been charged. Police recovered petrol from three vehicles but found no improvised explosive devices. Iran denies involvement. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected Britain’s allegation, pointing to the suspects’ release and saying: “You're barking up the wrong tree.”