The UK Government has introduced a series of robust measures to counter increasing security threats linked to Iran, following alarming intelligence reports of Iran-backed plots targeting British citizens, dissidents, journalists, and Jewish communities.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis MBE MP addressed Parliament today, warning of Iran’s escalating aggression and attempts to undermine UK security. He revealed that since 2022, MI5 has thwarted 20 Iran-backed plots, many of which posed lethal risks. The minister stressed that Iran’s intelligence services, particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS), play a central role in these operations, often employing criminal networks to execute their plans within the UK.
Growing Cyber and Physical Threats
Beyond physical threats, Iran has intensified its cyber warfare tactics against the UK. The National Cyber Security Centre has identified Iran-affiliated actors targeting British state institutions and private entities. Additionally, journalists reporting on Iran’s human rights abuses have faced surveillance and intimidation, highlighting the regime’s far-reaching efforts to silence critics.
For too long, the Iranian state has threatened and intimidated those in Iran and abroad who dared to stand up to the regime.
The measures we’ve announced today will reduce the threat from the Iranian Intelligence Services and help keep our country safe.https://t.co/MPx0uqju1L pic.twitter.com/1maDx5RGPF
— Dan Jarvis MP (@DanJarvisMBE) March 4, 2025
Government Response and New Security Measures
In response, the UK has launched a series of countermeasures aimed at neutralizing Iran’s influence:
- Inclusion in the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS): Iran’s intelligence services, including the IRGC and MOIS, have been placed under the enhanced tier of FIRS. Any individual acting on behalf of Iran in the UK must register their activities or face up to five years in prison.
- Review of Proscription Laws: The government has assigned Jonathan Hall KC, the Independent Reviewer of State Threats Legislation, to assess the adequacy of current counter-terrorism laws in addressing state-sponsored threats, including those linked to Iran.
- Strengthened International Cooperation: The UK is deepening collaboration with its Five Eyes and European partners to expose and counteract Iranian activities.
- Enhanced Counter-Terrorism Training: All 45 territorial police forces in the UK will receive specialized training to enhance their ability to respond to Iranian-backed threats.
- Crackdown on Criminal Proxies: The National Crime Agency is actively targeting Iranian-linked criminal networks, including those laundering funds for the IRGC. Sanctions have already been imposed on the leader of the Zindashti organized crime group, with further measures under consideration.
- Stricter Border and Immigration Controls: The government is exploring new immigration enforcement strategies to prevent Iranian infiltration and influence operations.
- Protection for Vulnerable Communities: Investigations have been launched into Iranian-linked institutions in the UK, including the Islamic Centre of England and the Al-Tawheed Charitable Trust. Meanwhile, security funding for synagogues, Jewish schools, and community centers remains a priority.
Demanding certain actions from @GOVUK, the MPs stressed that London must proscribe #IRGCterorrists for gross #humanrightsviolations, spreading terror around the globe and destabilizing #MiddleEast. https://t.co/GJwPCx2oV6
— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) February 1, 2023
A Firm Commitment to National Security
Jarvis reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to national security, emphasizing that the UK will resist any attempts to undermine its sovereignty and way of life. “We will resist attacks on our way of life as vigorously as we counter threats to life—whatever their source,” he declared.
He concluded by commending the dedication of UK law enforcement and intelligence agencies in neutralizing Iranian threats, underscoring that security remains the foundation of a stable and resilient nation.
MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu
