Trump and Rubio criticize UK handling of suspects linked to possible RAF Fairford plot

Five men in their mid-20s were arrested near the RAF Fairford air base in England on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act and were released on bail the following day. British counter-terrorism officials said the suspects remain under strict conditions and are still being investigated, noting that no explosives or weapons were found and that the police have not ruled out motives such as fuel theft.

President Donald Trump said he was surprised by the bail decision and suggested the incident could be linked to Iran, adding that U.S. and British authorities had worked closely on the case. "We know everything about them. We would not have released them," he told reporters.

Senator Marco Rubio described the situation as "very serious" and claimed it "clearly involves the hands of a foreign actor," though he offered no further evidence. He told Fox News that more information would emerge in the coming days.

Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor of the Metropolitan Police said the activity might involve proxies or individuals acting knowingly or unknowingly on behalf of a foreign state. Iranian officials denied any connection, calling recent speculation linking Iran to the case "unfounded and malicious."

A British legal expert, who asked to remain anonymous, said releasing suspects on bail to monitor their contacts is a standard investigative tactic. Local sources have suggested the men may have been attempting to siphon diesel fuel, a crime that has risen amid higher fuel prices.

The incident occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions over RAF Fairford, which has been used by U.S. bombers in operations against Iran, and ongoing concerns about foreign-state-linked sabotage in Europe.