UK releases 5 terror suspects on bail — Trump says he is surprised

Five British men arrested as part of a counterterrorism investigation into a suspected plot near RAF Fairford, an air base used by the U.S. military in England, have been released on bail — a decision that drew a reaction from President Donald Trump.

The five suspects, all British nationals in their 20s, were arrested early Sunday near the base on suspicion of explosives-related offenses and preparing an act of terrorism.

The investigation began after three suspicious vans were reported near RAF Fairford. Bomb-disposal specialists examined the vehicles, while armed police and counterterrorism officers secured the surrounding area.

The suspects were released on bail Monday under strict conditions. British counterterrorism officials stressed that all five remain under active investigation as authorities pursue several possible lines of inquiry.

President Donald Trump questioned the decision to release the men.

“I’m surprised that they released them. I wouldn’t have done that,” Trump told reporters Monday.

Trump also said the arrests involved cooperation between the United States and Britain and claimed the suspects had been under observation for some time.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also expressed concern about the case, saying the incident appeared to involve a foreign actor. British investigators are examining whether the suspects may have been acting on behalf of a foreign state, including a possible connection to Iran.

However, authorities have not concluded that Iran — or any other foreign government — was behind the suspected plot. Iran has denied involvement.

Police have also not publicly confirmed finding viable explosives in the vehicles.

RAF Fairford is a British military installation frequently used by U.S. Air Force aircraft, including American bombers.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the suspects’ intentions and whether anyone else was involved.