Three Iranian Nationals Arrested for Alleged Espionage in the UK

Three Iranian men, believed to have ties with Iran’s intelligence service, face serious charges in a London court for allegedly planning schemes to harm individuals residing in Britain.

Three Iranian nationals were arrested in London and charged with offenses related to espionage for Iran’s intelligence service, raising alarms over potential threats to British citizens. Mostafa Sepahvand, 39; Farhad Javadi Manesh, 44; and Shapoor Qalehali Khani Noori, 55, were brought before the court on Saturday, May 17, 2025. They face accusations of engaging in activities that support a foreign intelligence service, specifically Iran, over a period spanning from August 14 of the previous year to February 16.

The Metropolitan Police, who apprehended the men on May 3, revealed that they conducted surveillance and reconnaissance with the intent to coordinate actions that could inflict serious violence against an unidentified target. This incident comes amidst escalating apprehensions regarding Iranian operatives reportedly plotting against journalists and other individuals in the UK, notably those associated with Iran International, a London-based Persian-language news organization known for its criticism of Iran’s regime.

All three accused, who reportedly entered the UK illegally between 2016 and 2022, had traveled from France via small boats. Yvette Cooper, Britain’s home secretary, emphasized the importance of allowing the legal process to unfold without interference while also addressing the broader implications of these charges. She affirmed that the nation would not ignore increasing state-sponsored threats within its borders.

Furthermore, Ken McCallum, the head of MI5, noted that since January 2022, intelligence services have been engaged in investigations concerning 20 plots allegedly backed by Iran, all presenting significant risks to the safety of British inhabitants.

The Metropolitan Police continue to monitor these developments, asserting that they remain vigilant against any foreign state activities that jeopardize national security.