UK Takes Action Against Iranian Proxy Group After Antisemitic Attacks
On Monday, the United Kingdom accused an Iran-linked group of carrying out multiple antisemitic arson attacks on Jewish sites in Britain. In response, the UK government announced a ban on Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and introduced new powers to combat foreign-backed criminal activities.
Officials stated that the Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Right (IMCR) claimed responsibility for seven attacks this year, targeting Jewish locations and a Persian-language media outlet critical of the Iranian government. The UK government highlighted that the Qods Force, a unit within the IRGC, is likely directing these operations in Europe.
The investigations revealed that these attacks included fires at synagogues and Jewish community centers in London, though fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the importance of the new measures, sending a strong message to hostile foreign entities. He declared, “We will never let Britain be a playground for states that want to sow fear and division. Anyone acting on behalf of those who threaten our national security should know there is no place for them in Britain.”
If Parliament approves the new measures, individuals involved in sabotage or arson for the IRGC, IMCR, or the Russian GRU Volunteer Corps could face life imprisonment. Those assisting these groups may receive prison sentences of up to 14 years.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood accused Iran and Russia of using criminal proxies to act out their agendas in the UK. She stated, “Iran and Russia are using proxies to carry out their plans on our soil. I have rapidly designated three groups so that those working for them can be tracked down and brought to justice.”
The IMCR, which surfaced online this year, has also claimed responsibility for attacks on synagogues in Belgium and the Netherlands. UK intelligence agencies warn that Iran-supported groups are increasingly recruiting individuals from criminal organizations to carry out attacks against Jewish communities and Iranian dissidents across Europe.
In the past year, MI5 identified at least 20 serious Iran-backed plots against individuals in the UK. The government has already sanctioned over 550 Iranian-linked entities and promised £250 million (around $335 million) over three years to enhance security for Jewish communities, including better protection for synagogues and schools.
Additionally, the UK identified Russia’s GRU Volunteer Corps as a proxy for Russian military intelligence, recruiting individuals online for hostile operations.
This crackdown follows a recent case where two Romanian men were sentenced for attacking a journalist associated with a Persian-language television station in London—an incident linked to Iranian state actions.
As of now, Iran has not commented on the UK’s recent announcements.
