Iran linked to more than 20 plots to kill or kidnap British citizens and residents

Summary: The British government has reported a significant increase in threats posed by Iran, with MI5 responding to 20 potential plots against UK citizens since 2022. Security minister Dan Jarvis outlined the government’s commitment to counter these threats, which include intimidation and violence against dissidents and critics of the Iranian regime. Measures include enhancing the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme to hold criminal proxies accountable.

Affected: British citizens and residents, UK intelligence and law enforcement agencies

Keypoints :

• MI5 has responded to 20 Iranian threat plots against UK citizens since early 2022.
• Investigations into state threats surged by 48% last year, involving Iran, Russia, and China.
• The Iranian regime is reportedly utilizing organized criminal groups to execute intimidation and violence.
• Sanctions were imposed on individuals involved in transnational repression, including assassination plots.
• The upcoming Foreign Influence Registration Scheme aims to require criminal proxies to register their activities.
• Jonathan Hall KC will review Britain’s counterterrorism strategy in relation to modern state threats.