‘Iran smells weakness’: Burnham challenged over IRGC after airbase plot

Prime Minister Andy Burnham urged direct action against Iran if it successfully attacked a British airbase, following sanctions imposed on two Iranian nationals involved in plots to attack Britain. The UK blamed Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for the attempted attacks at bases in Diego Garcia, Akrotiri, and Fairford.

Former deputy prime minister Oliver Dowden stated that Iran viewed Britain as an enemy and "smells weakness," suggesting that a successful attack would require direct action. Dowden also called for enhanced support and assistance to allies facing constant attacks, particularly in light of the targeting of Saudi Arabia. Burnham claimed Britain was providing the "most robust response" to the situation.

The government designated Ruhollah Bazghandi, head of counter-espionage operations within the IRGC, for an asset freeze, travel ban, and prohibition from running UK companies, as he was believed to be directly involved in threats, planning, or conducting attacks against Britain or its allies. Shahram Ali Reza Tamarzadeh Jakki, a key organiser of the Zindashti criminal network, was also sanctioned for supporting planned attacks.

Seven men have been arrested over a suspected attack on RAF Fairford, though no viable explosives were found. The US removed its B-1 bomber aircraft from the base, leaving mixed signals about whether the attack was planned or was due to caution. British authorities have accused Iran of numerous plots against the UK, leading to the banning of support for the IRGC and its linked group accused of attacks on Jewish and Israeli communities and Persian-language media.

Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband condemned Iran's attempts to undermine the UK and its allies' security through criminal networks, proxy groups, and state-backed malign activity. The Iranian ambassador faced a dressing down from the foreign office, while Tehran's state news agency labeled British allegations as baseless. The government announced the designation of two Iranian nationals for facilitating or engaging in hostile activities on behalf of the Iranian regime, intending to threaten, plan, or conduct attacks overseas.

The Foreign Office reported identifying at least 15 credible Iranian-backed threats to kill or kidnap individuals in the UK between 2022 and 2023, rising to over 20 in 2025.