Four Held Over Suspected Iranian Spy Plot Targeting UK Jewish Community
Counter-terror police swooped in overnight, arresting four men on suspicion of spying for Iran. Raids are underway in north London and Hertfordshire as the investigation intensifies.
Multiple Arrests in Tight Security Operation
Just after 1am on Friday, Met Police arrested four men: one Iranian citizen and three dual British-Iranian nationals. The arrests took place at homes in Barnet, Harrow, and Watford.
- Two men, aged 40 and 55, were detained in Barnet.
- A 52-year-old was arrested in Watford.
- A 22-year-old was held in Harrow.
All four face suspicion of assisting a foreign intelligence service under national security laws. Raids continue at properties in Wembley, Barnet, and Watford.
Six More Arrested in Connection With Assault
In a related swoop, six additional men aged 20-49 were arrested in Harrow on suspicion of assisting an offender. One man is also held for allegedly assaulting a police officer.
All 10 men remain in police custody as the investigation into surveillance of the Jewish community unfolds.
Counter Terror Chief Speaks Out
“These arrests are part of a long-running probe aimed at disrupting hostile activities,” said Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London.
“We understand the Jewish community may be concerned. We urge anyone with information to come forward and remain vigilant.”
Wider Tensions as UK Keeps Watch
The arrests come amid escalating US-Israeli strikes on Iran, with Tehran retaliating across the Middle East. While the UK is not involved in offensive actions, it provides defensive support to allies.
Prime Minister warned Parliament that Iran has targeted dissidents and Jewish groups in the UK, with multiple plots foiled last year.
Deputy PM called Iran the world’s biggest state sponsor of terrorism, highlighting its threat to UK society. Shadow Foreign Secretary condemned Tehran’s antisemitism.
Jewish Groups Call for Tougher Action
The Board of Deputies thanked police for the arrests. But the Campaign Against Antisemitism slammed ministers for ignoring the ongoing Iranian threat.
“The failure to ban the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps sends a message that support for Iran’s brutal, Jew-hating regime is tolerated in Britain,” the CAA warned.
This story is developing. Please refresh for updates.
