UK to Increase Scrutiny on Iran Amid Growing Aggression and Threats

Britain announced on Tuesday that it will be placing Iran under an elevated level of scrutiny due to its increasingly aggressive activities, particularly targeting dissidents, media organizations, and journalists critical of the regime. The move involves requiring Iran's state entities, security services, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to register under the country’s Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS), which is set to launch this summer.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis emphasized in parliament that the Iranian regime has been stepping up its operations in the UK, specifically targeting individuals and organizations that oppose its actions. “The Iranian regime is targeting dissidents, and it is targeting media organizations and journalists reporting on the violent oppression of the regime,” Jarvis stated.

In recent years, the Iranian government has been linked to an increasing number of covert operations against British nationals and individuals seen as a threat to Tehran. According to Britain’s domestic intelligence agency MI5, at least 20 plots backed by Iran have been foiled since January 2022. These plots involved attempts to kidnap or kill individuals regarded by Iran as adversaries within the UK.

The Foreign Influence Registration Scheme, which will require foreign powers to disclose political influence activities, is part of a broader initiative to safeguard Britain’s interests and protect against covert foreign interference. Under the new system, failure to register when required will be considered a criminal offense.

The Enhanced Scrutiny Tier for Iran

Iran will be subject to an "enhanced" tier of scrutiny, which will grant British ministers the power to demand the registration of a wider range of activities related to political influence. This decision reflects the growing concern over Tehran’s activities in the UK, which have escalated in recent years.

Jarvis pointed out that Iran’s actions in the UK, including direct threats to targets within the country, have become more assertive and organized. "It is clear that these plots are a conscious strategy of the Iranian regime to stifle criticism through intimidation and fear," he said. "These threats are unacceptable. They must and will be defended against at every turn."