Trump, Rubio Criticize UK Bail Of Suspects Near U.S.-Linked RAF Base
Five British men arrested near RAF Fairford on Sunday on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act were released on bail Monday, and the detentions drew criticism from President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.[1]
Police said the five were released under bail conditions that restrict their movement and contact.[1] Officers reported finding no viable explosive device, and some local sources say the men may have been trying to steal fuel rather than attack the base.[1]
RAF Fairford is a U.K. air base used by U.S. bombers to launch attacks on Iran during the seven-month war.[1] The five suspects are British men in their mid-20s, authorities said.[1]
President Trump said the U.S. "would not have released them" and suggested the incident "might be" linked to Iran.[1] Secretary of State Marco Rubio called it a "very serious" incident that "clearly involves" a foreign actor, remarks that go beyond British officials' initial characterizations as unclear.[1] Police said their investigation is ongoing.[1]
Show source details & analysis (1 source)
📌 Key Facts
- On Sunday, September 27, 2026, five British men in their mid-20s were arrested near RAF Fairford on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act.
- RAF Fairford is a U.K. air base used by U.S. bombers to launch attacks on Iran during the seven-month war.
- All five suspects were released on bail Monday, September 28, 2026, under conditions restricting movement and contact.
- President Trump said the U.S. "would not have released them" and suggested the incident "might be" linked to Iran.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the case a "very serious" incident that "clearly involves" a foreign actor, going beyond British officials' characterizations.
- British police say no viable explosive device was found, and some local sources suggest the men may have been attempting to steal fuel rather than attack the base.
📰 Source Timeline (1)
Follow how coverage of this story developed over time