Andy Burnham says "always take every step necessary" on public safety after RAF Fairford arrests

Five men were arrested early Sunday in Whelford, Gloucestershire, after armed officers intercepted three vans approaching RAF Fairford, a base used by U.S. bombers. They were detained over suspected explosives and terrorism offences, and counterterrorism officers are reportedly examining whether Iran had any involvement. Police had no advance intelligence about a possible plot, according to the Press Association. A local resident called 999, and bomb-disposal teams later checked the vehicles; a cordon left about 85 households unable to return overnight. The case unfolded amid heightened U.K. concerns about hostile-state activity and U.S.-Iran hostilities. Prime Minister Andy Burnham called the incident troubling and said safeguarding the public was paramount. Investigators are examining seized items for any plot or motive.