UK summons Iranian ambassador after three nationals charged with spying

The UK government has summoned Iran's ambassador, Seyed Ali Mousavi, following the charging of three Iranian nationals with spying offences under the National Security Act. Mostafa Sepahvand, Farhad Javadi Manesh, and Shapoor Qalehali Khani Noori appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court accused of conduct likely to assist a foreign intelligence service, including surveillance and reconnaissance with intentions linked to serious violence in the UK. The charges reportedly relate to targeting journalists working for the London-based Iran International media organization. The Foreign Office emphasized that protecting national security is a top priority and declared that Iran must be held accountable for these actions. This diplomatic move follows reciprocal tensions, with the British chargé d’affaires in Tehran being summoned by Iran over what Iranian state media described as politically motivated allegations. A fourth individual arrested in connection with the counter-terrorism investigation has been released without charge.