British authorities are investigating two separate plots involving predominantly Iranian nationals, which are suspected to be state-sponsored. Over the weekend, eight arrests were made in London and across the UK, with seven of the apprehended being Iranian nationals. Three men were detained under the 2023 National Security Act for suspected links to a foreign power. While both plots are distinct, officials investigate whether they are directed by the same entity.
The first plot was revealed early Sunday, with five men, four of Iranian descent, arrested under the Terrorism Act on suspicions of planning a terrorist act. The group, aged between 29 and 46, was apprehended in various UK locations, and their specific target remains undisclosed. Meanwhile, details of the second plot have yet to be released. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper described the operations as significant, highlighting that they reflect some of the most substantial counter-state and counterterrorism efforts in recent years.
Historically, Iranian nationals have targeted individuals in the UK, including journalists from the Farsi-speaking network Iran International, who faced threats due to their criticism of the Iranian government. A foiled plot involved plans to assassinate two journalists, which was thwarted by a double agent for a Western intelligence agency. Moreover, attacks have been rising against dissidents and media organizations reporting on Iran’s actions, with the UK having responded to 20 Iran-backed plots since 2022, which poses serious threats to UK citizens. U.K. Minister of State Dan Jarvis emphasized that these schemes reflect a deliberate strategy by the Iranian regime to suppress criticism through intimidation.
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