Netanyahu claims UK warned of Iran terror attack before Fairford incident. What we know

Become an Independent member to bookmark this article Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today. Join today Already a member? Log in Netanyahu claims UK warned of Iran terror attack before Fairford incident. What we know Sian Elvin Thursday 01 October 2026 10:50 BST Bookmark popover Removed from bookmarks Close popover Israel warned UK over ‘Iranian attack’ ahead of RAF Fairford incident, Netanyahu claims Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Israel warned the UK about an Iranian-sponsored attack ahead of a recent security incident at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. Speaking to US broadcaster Fox News, Benjamin Netanyahu described the UK's political response as absurd, criticising the British government for imposing sanctions against Israel shortly after receiving the intelligence. The diplomatic row follows sanctions introduced by the UK last month in response to the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. Five British nationals in their mid-20s were arrested near the RAF Fairford military base on suspicion of explosives and terrorism offences before being released on bail under investigation. Andy Burnham confirmed there were strong indications Iran played a role in the incident at the base, which has been used by US bombers for defensive strikes during the Middle East conflict. In full Israel warned UK over ‘Iranian attack’ ahead of RAF Fairford incident, Netanyahu claims