Government Statement
Three Iranian nationals have been charged with offences under the National Security Act 2023, marking the first time individuals linked to Iran have faced such charges. The Home Secretary thanked police and security agencies for their work in defending national security and keeping communities safe. She highlighted a series of grave issues related to rising state-backed threats from Iran, emphasising that the UK will not tolerate these activities on its soil. The Iranian ambassador has been summoned, and sanctions are being introduced against the Foxtrot network and other enablers used by Iran for criminal activity. The Government have established a new state threats joint unit, set up to pursue and coordinate action against such threats. Furthermore, Jonathan Hall KC's review of terrorism legislation recommends creating a new power of proscription to cover state threats, which will be modelled on counter-terrorism powers. Counter-terrorism powers at the border are being introduced to strengthen national security, including immigration and asylum system reviews for potential enhancements in addressing criminality or threats. The Prime Minister has committed to publishing a new national security strategy that will set out how the whole of Government and society need to respond to hybrid threats.