Iranian state threat activities in the UK Research Briefing
UK House of Commons Library, Iranian State Threat Activities in the UK (2025) examines the growing threat posed by the Iranian government to individuals and institutions in the United Kingdom, with a particular focus on transnational repression. The briefing explains that Iranian state-linked actors have engaged in a range of activities aimed at intimidating, silencing, or harming dissidents, journalists, activists, and other perceived opponents living in the UK. Drawing on findings from the UK Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee and government assessments, the report notes that Iran has become one of the most significant state-based security threats facing the UK, with authorities identifying numerous plots involving kidnapping, assassination, surveillance, intimidation, cyber operations, and pressure on family members in Iran. The briefing highlights that these actions form part of a broader strategy of transnational repression designed to suppress criticism of the Islamic Republic beyond its borders. It also outlines the UK government's responses, including sanctions, enhanced national security measures, and efforts to strengthen protections for individuals targeted by foreign states.
Read the full report in PDF format.