UK Arrests Eight, Including Seven Iranians, in Major Counter-Terrorism Raids

British counterterrorism police arrested eight men, including seven Iranian nationals, in two separate operations described as among the most significant in recent years. At least four of the Iranians were suspected of plotting to target a specific, undisclosed location, while the others were held under suspicion of foreign power threat activity and espionage-related offenses. The arrests occurred in London, Swindon, and the Greater Manchester area, and authorities are still investigating motivations and potential risks to the public. The operations reflect heightened scrutiny of Iran-linked activities in the UK, with officials noting a rise in plots allegedly backed by Tehran. Iran's foreign ministry rejected the UK's accusations, calling for evidence and expressing willingness to cooperate if credible allegations are established. The UK recently placed Iran on the highest tier of its foreign influence register, requiring greater transparency for Tehran’s political activities in Britain.