Ireland breaking news readers are following a major international security case after US prosecutors announced charges against three alleged Iran-backed operatives over plots in the United States and Europe, including an alleged plan linked to RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.
The allegations have renewed attention on security around military installations in the UK and the wider relationship between Iran, the United States and European allies. Iran has denied involvement in the RAF Fairford incident, while British authorities continue their own investigation.
RAF Fairford plot: What US prosecutors allege
The US Department of Justice said three men were charged in an eight-count indictment unsealed on Tuesday. The defendants are Mohsen Mohajeri, Mohammad Ali al-Hassani and Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi.
According to the indictment, the men allegedly supported plots carried out under the name Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya, or HAYI. US officials claim the group took responsibility for attacks in Europe during spring 2026, including incidents involving arson, explosives and a stabbing in London.
The charges remain allegations, and the defendants are entitled to due process. Prosecutors claim the suspects had links to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Iran-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah.
Alleged preparations near the airbase
The DOJ alleges that al-Hassani directed associates in the UK during August and September. Prosecutors say the alleged preparations included:
- Surveillance of the perimeter around RAF Fairford
- Arranging vans and fuel containers
- Researching chemical accelerants
- Obtaining metal objects that could potentially be used as shrapnel
- Directing drivers towards the airbase
Three suspicious vans were reported near RAF Fairford in the early hours of 27 September. A local farmer alerted police after seeing the vehicles. No explosives were found, although police seized petrol. At least two vans reportedly encountered a security roadblock before reaching their intended route.
US bombers withdrawn from RAF Fairford
The United States removed its bombers from RAF Fairford following the incident. The base has been used by the US Air Force for decades and has served as an important staging point for military aircraft.
US officials previously cited security concerns and threats when explaining the withdrawal. The development drew attention because B-1 and B-52 bombers had operated from the base for defensive missions connected with tensions in the Middle East.
The case also highlights the strategic importance of RAF Fairford, which is located in the Cotswolds and has hosted major US aircraft deployments. Authorities placed armed police around the base after the September incident.
Iran rejects allegations
Iran’s embassy in London has categorically rejected claims linking Tehran to the incident, describing the allegations as unfounded and malicious. The Iranian government has also denied responsibility for the wider alleged campaign described by US prosecutors.
Seven men have been arrested in the UK in connection with the RAF Fairford investigation. Two British nationals appeared in court last month over an alleged Iran-linked plot. The British proceedings and the US case are separate, although both concern the broader security investigation.
London stabbing included in US indictment
The indictment refers to the stabbing of two Jewish men in Golders Green, north London, in April. One of the victims was a dual US-British citizen. A suspect is expected to stand trial next year.
US officials say the alleged attacks demonstrate an effort to support violence in Europe. FBI Director Kash Patel said one defendant allegedly sent coded messages from detention to help facilitate future acts of violence.
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What happens next?
The US case will proceed through the federal court system, while UK investigators continue examining the suspicious vans and alleged activity around RAF Fairford. Prosecutors will need to prove the charges in court, and the defendants may challenge the evidence and alleged links to Iran-backed organisations.
The investigation comes amid heightened concern about threats to military infrastructure and possible covert operations in Europe. It also raises questions about how intelligence agencies, local police and international partners respond when suspicious activity is detected near strategic sites.
Conclusion
The RAF Fairford case is an important international security story with implications for the UK, the US and Iran. While US prosecutors have presented detailed allegations, Iran denies involvement and the defendants have not been convicted. The clearest takeaway is that security around military bases remains a priority as authorities assess the risks linked to geopolitical tensions and alleged overseas operations.