UK counterterrorism police

UK counterterrorism police have arrested five men and seized suspected explosives near a US Air Force base in England. Investigators are working to establish the men's intentions and are examining possible links to Iran, which has denied any involvement. The arrests, carried out by counterterror units, are expected to prompt questions about security around American military sites in Britain.

British authorities have reportedly prevented a possible terror attack, according to a Wall Street Journal opinion piece drawing attention to the operation. The item asserts that UK security services disrupted a plot, adding to ongoing debate in Britain and abroad about counterterrorism policing, surveillance powers and the pressures facing intelligence agencies. Details about the suspects, location or methods have not been confirmed in the available reporting.