Rising Iranian Threat to UK National Security Sparks Concern
Published 10 July 2025
Highlights
- A UK intelligence report highlights a rising and unpredictable threat from Iran, comparable to that posed by Russia.
- The report details Iranian state activities, including espionage, cyber attacks, and threats against dissidents in the UK.
- Since 2022, there have been at least 15 attempts at murder or kidnap against UK-based individuals linked to Iranian interests.
- Iranian cyber-attacks target UK sectors like petrochemicals and finance, ranking the UK just below the US and Saudi Arabia.
- The Iranian embassy in London has rejected the report's findings, calling them "biased" and "baseless."
A recent report by the UK Parliament's intelligence and security committee has raised alarms over a growing and unpredictable threat from Iran, likening it to the threat posed by Russia. The comprehensive inquiry, which concluded in August 2023, scrutinized Iranian state activities, including espionage, cyber attacks, and threats against dissidents residing in the UK.
Escalating Threats and Espionage
The report underscores a "sharp increase" in physical threats against opponents of the Iranian regime within the UK, with at least 15 attempts at murder or kidnap recorded since 2022. These threats have intensified alongside anti-government protests in Iran, notably following the death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022. Iranian dissidents, particularly those affiliated with Persian TV channels broadcasting into Iran, have been primary targets.
Iran's cyber activities also pose significant risks, with the UK identified as a priority espionage target, trailing only the US and Saudi Arabia. The report warns of vulnerabilities in the UK's petrochemical and finance sectors to potential Iranian cyber-attacks.
Government Response and Criticism
The intelligence committee criticizes the UK government's approach to Iran as overly focused on crisis management, particularly concerning Iran's nuclear ambitions, at the expense of addressing broader threats. The report advocates for a more comprehensive and well-resourced response to the multifaceted challenges posed by Iran.
In March, the UK government placed Iran on the enhanced tier of the foreign influence registration scheme, requiring those directed by Iran to register their activities or face legal consequences. This move aims to curb Iranian influence and protect UK national security.
Diplomatic Tensions
The Iranian embassy in London has dismissed the report's findings as "biased" and "baseless," arguing that such accusations are defamatory and undermine diplomatic relations. Despite these denials, the report's findings will inform the UK government's ongoing review of terrorism legislation, particularly concerning state-sponsored terrorism.
What this might mean
The escalating threats from Iran could lead to increased diplomatic tensions between the UK and Iran, potentially impacting bilateral relations. The UK government may need to enhance its security measures and intelligence capabilities to counter these threats effectively. Additionally, the findings could influence future legislative changes, particularly regarding state-sponsored terrorism and foreign influence. As the situation evolves, the UK may seek to collaborate with international allies to address the broader implications of Iranian activities on global security.
