British counterterrorism officers arrested several Iranian men on suspicion of planning a terrorist attack at an undisclosed location in London. The arrests involved five men aged between 29 and 46, with four being Iranian citizens, while the nationality of the fifth is still under investigation. In a separate probe, three more Iranian men, aged 39, 44, and 55, were detained on suspicion of a national security offense. The suspects are currently being questioned by police, and several properties in London, Manchester, and Swindon are being searched. The arrests underscore ongoing concerns about Iranian-backed plots targeting individuals in the U.K. and highlight the need for adaptive national security responses, as noted by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and MI5 head Ken McCallum.

British police arrested several Iranian men over an alleged plot to attack a location in London, with the suspects ranging in age from 29 to 46. Four of the detained are confirmed Iranian citizens, while the nationality of the fifth individual is still being determined.

In a parallel investigation, three additional Iranian men, aged 39, 44, and 55, were apprehended in London for a national security offense. These arrests form part of broader efforts to address potential threats related to Iranian state aggression.

The suspects have not yet been charged and are being questioned at police stations. Authorities are conducting searches at various properties across London, Manchester, and Swindon as part of their investigation.

The targeted attack location has not been disclosed for operational reasons, and Commander Dominic Murphy stated that investigations are ongoing to identify the motive and assess further risks to the public.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the seriousness of these events, noting the necessity of adapting national security strategies to evolving threats. Cooperation with police and intelligence agencies continues to ensure the safety of the country.

MI5's head, Ken McCallum, highlighted that since 2022, 20 potentially lethal plots backed by Iran have been identified in the U.K., primarily targeting Iranian dissidents. The U.K.’s current terror threat level is 'substantial,' indicating a likely attack.

The arrests and ongoing investigations reflect broader concerns about increasing Iranian state aggression, especially in light of potential escalations in Middle Eastern conflicts, which could impact security in the U.K.