Iranian-linked plot to attack Israeli embassy in London foiled in major UK counter-terror operation

The Israeli embassy in London was the target of an alleged Iranian terrorist attack, intelligence sources have revealed.

Five men, including four Iranian nationals, were arrested at locations across England on Saturday in what the Home Secretary described as one of the biggest counter-terror operations in recent years.

It is understood that the Israeli embassy in Kensington, west London, was the target of a planned attack.

British Government sources say the suspected terror cell was hours from unleashing the attack when the men were arrested.

The Israeli embassy in London declined to comment when approached, and the Metropolitan Police have not confirmed the intended target. However, they warned that speculation could jeopardise “a fast-moving investigation.”

The alleged use of Iranian nationals in an overseas terror plot would represent a significant shift in approach, as Tehran usually prefers to hire criminal proxies to operate on its behalf.

It was reported on Wednesday night that asylum hotels were raided as part of the operation.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis told the House of Commons: “These are some of the largest counter-state threats we have seen in recent times.” He confirmed that three of the suspects were arrested under the National Security Act 2023, marking the first Iranian nationals arrested under the Act. The eight men were arrested at separate locations across London, Greater Manchester, and Swindon.

Seven remain in custody, with four Iranian nationals still held, while one has been released on bail under strict conditions. Officers are continuing to search multiple addresses.

Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command, cautioned against speculation: “Any commentary around this investigation could have a negative impact as we work to keep the public safe from potential threats.”

In response, Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi rejected any involvement, posting on X: “Iran categorically rejects any involvement in such actions and confirms that we have not been informed of any allegations via proper diplomatic channels. There is a history of third parties bent on derailing diplomacy and provoking escalation, resorting to desperate measures, including false flag operations.”

Jarvis said that the investigation would be “careful, painstaking” and warned against public commentary as the process remained active. “There are very strict limitations on what ministers can say at this point because it would be unforgivable to cut across live counter-terrorism operations,” he said.

Shadow Home Office Minister Matt Vickers raised concerns about the suspects’ networks and immigration status, pressing the Government to disclose further details. The Government has yet to comment on this matter.

In March, the Government placed the Islamic Republic of Iran at the top level of its new Foreign Influence Registration Scheme, designed to expose covert activity by hostile states. 

Anyone found conducting undeclared influence operations on behalf of Iran could face up to five years in prison once the scheme comes into force in July. 

UK security officials continue to warn of state-sponsored threats originating from Tehran, with more than 20 plots linked to the Iranian regime being disrupted since 2022, according to MI5 Director General Ken McCallum.