MI5 Urges Action Against Rising Terror Threats

MI5 Director General Ken McCallum has highlighted a significant rise in threats from Russia and Iran on British soil, including assassination plots and sabotage, often using criminal proxies. The UK faces a complex threat landscape with state actors, radicalized individuals, and a resurgent Islamic State (ISIS) contributing to potential violence. McCallum also emphasized the alarming increase in minors being drawn into extremism, with children now comprising a significant portion of terrorism suspects due to online radicalization. He noted the UK's support for Ukraine has made it a target for Russian espionage and aggression, requiring a robust response under new security laws. The MI5 chief called for more resources to combat these threats and stressed the importance of monitoring online communications to prevent extremist plots. Since 2017, MI5 and police have disrupted 43 late-stage attack plots, highlighting the ongoing risk of mass casualty events.