Police arrest several men near RAF Fairford in explosives investigation

British police arrested several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act near RAF Fairford, an airbase used by the United States for strikes against Iranian targets. The arrests triggered a "major incident" declaration, leading to the evacuation of properties in the nearby village of Whelford and a search of vehicles by an Army explosive ordnance disposal team.

Gloucestershire police said the incident appeared to be contained, while armed officers blocked access to the base and a bomb-disposal robot was observed operating near three white vans. Residents of the adjacent village were awakened in the early hours and instructed to leave their homes.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham was being briefed on the situation, and the British government declined to comment further while investigations continue. A U.S. Air Force spokesperson said the 501st Combat Support Wing and other UK-based units remain vigilant to protect service members and their families, noting that security measures are regularly assessed.

The incident follows earlier warnings from Iran's Revolutionary Guards that any base used in strikes could be targeted, and comes amid heightened security at other U.S. bases in Britain.