British counterterrorism authorities have arrested several Iranian nationals on suspicion of plotting a terrorist attack in London, according to police statements released Saturday.
Key Details:
- Five men aged between 29 and 46 were arrested across different locations in England on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act.
- Four of the suspects are Iranian nationals, while the nationality of the fifth man remains unconfirmed.
- In a separate operation, three more Iranian men were arrested in London for offenses related to national security.
- All suspects are currently in custody and being interrogated. No formal charges have been filed yet.
Police have withheld details about the specific target of the alleged plot, citing “operational reasons.”
Dominic Murphy, head of the Counter Terrorism Command, stated the investigation remains ongoing and that “motives and potential risks to the public are still being assessed.”
Government Response:
UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper described the arrests as a “significant event” that highlights the ongoing need to adapt the country’s response to evolving national security threats.
She emphasized that the government continues to work with intelligence agencies and law enforcement to ensure public safety.
This development comes after MI5 chief Ken McCallum revealed in October last year that Iran-backed operatives had planned at least 20 potentially lethal plots in the UK since 2022—most targeting Iranian dissidents residing in Britain.
