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3mo ago

Three Iranian Nationals Charged in UK Espionage Case

The suspects face allegations of spying for Iran’s intelligence service and plotting violence, including targeting journalists, under the National Security Act.

A sign stands in front of the New Scotland Yard, the headquarters of the London Metropolitan Police, in 2023.
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ROCHDALE, ENGLAND - MAY 04: Police forensic officers search a house on May 04, 2025 in Rochdale, England. According to Metropolitan Police, five men were arrested overnight during pre-planned counter terrorism raids in Greater Manchester, Swindon, and London, as part of an investigation into "a suspected plot to target a specific premises." Four of the five were arrested under the Terrorism Act (TACT) and are Iranian nationals, police confirmed, with the fifth man's nationality still being determined. (Photo by Ryan Jenkinson/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Mostafa Sepahvand, Farhad Javadi Manesh, and Shapoor Qalehali Khani Noori were charged with assisting Iran’s intelligence service through espionage activities from August 2024 to February 2025.
  • Sepahvand is accused of conducting surveillance and reconnaissance with the intent to commit serious violence, while the other two allegedly assisted others in planning violent acts.
  • The three men, who entered the UK illegally and later sought asylum, are accused of targeting journalists linked to Iran International, a broadcaster critical of Tehran.
  • A fourth individual arrested during the investigation was released without charge, and the three defendants have been remanded in custody following their court appearance.
  • Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced plans to strengthen national security laws to address state threats and hold Iran accountable for its activities on British soil.