UK Defence Minister Wes Streeting said on Monday that he would not speculate on the motive behind a bomb scare at an English military base, as authorities continued to investigate the incident.
Speaking to BBC News, Streeting said the investigation was ongoing. He also referred to what he described as broader concerns over Iran’s activities, saying British authorities regularly work to prevent attempts that could threaten the UK, its interests or its allies.
In May, Britain imposed sanctions on 12 individuals and entities linked to Iran, accusing them of involvement in hostile activities, including alleged plots to carry out attacks and provide financial support to groups seeking to destabilise Britain and other countries.
Iran has repeatedly denied involvement in attacks or alleged plots in Britain and other countries.
The British government had authorised the United States to use bombers stationed at RAF Fairford to conduct strikes against Iranian missile sites involved in attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
Authorities said senior government officials were being regularly briefed on the situation. Prime Minister Andy Burnham also cancelled at least two engagements at his Labour Party’s annual conference on Sunday.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards had warned Britain in July against allowing US bombers to operate from RAF Fairford, saying any base used to launch attacks could be considered a legitimate target.
Police have established a 400-metre security cordon around the base in Fairford and evacuated residents from 85 homes as a precaution.
A bomb-disposal robot was seen operating near three white vans on Sunday, while security measures around the facility were strengthened. Armed police were deployed at the main entrance, and heavy machinery was used to block other access points.
