Iran has dismissed allegations by British intelligence agencies that it was involved in plots targeting individuals on UK soil, describing the claims as unfounded and damaging to diplomatic ties.
The denial came after MI5 Director-General Ken McCallum revealed that British security services had disrupted more than 20 operations allegedly linked to Tehran over the past year. He said 2025 had required “a significant expansion of our counter-Iran effort,” citing an increase in what he described as hostile state activities.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Iranian Embassy in London said it “strongly rejects” the accusations and “denies any involvement in violent acts, kidnappings, or harassment of individuals in the UK or elsewhere.”
The embassy added that such claims lack credible evidence and represent “a continued effort to distort Iran’s policies and undermine bilateral diplomatic relations.”
Iran reaffirmed its commitment to international law and peaceful coexistence, calling on the UK to “refrain from escalating baseless accusations” and pursue “constructive dialogue based on mutual respect.”
British officials have repeatedly warned that Iran’s activities pose a significant state-based threat to the UK, alongside those from Russia and China. Concerns have been raised over Tehran’s alleged cyberattacks, surveillance operations, and links to criminal networks targeting dissidents.
McCallum’s remarks follow a July parliamentary report describing Iran as a “persistent and growing security challenge,” warning that the UK and its allies face “a sustained campaign of intimidation and aggression” from Tehran.
