Britain is facing a significant increase in attempted assassinations, sabotage, and other criminal activities on its soil orchestrated by Russia and Iran, according to MI5 Director General Ken McCallum. He stated that there have been 20 potentially lethal plots backed by Iran since 2022, with the possibility of expanding targets in the UK if conflicts in the Middle East escalate. McCallum highlighted the complex threat environment posed by hostile states, radicalized individuals, and the resurgence of the Islamic State group.
McCallum also warned of the risk of state aggression from Iran and the potential for attacks in the UK due to conflicts between Israel and Iran-backed groups. He noted a 48% increase in state-threat investigations undertaken by MI5, with Russia, Iran, and China being the main perpetrators.
McCallum emphasized the importance of managing risks in the UK’s relationship with China amidst growing assertiveness, while acknowledging the diversity of beliefs and ideologies driving terrorist plots. He expressed concern about the Islamic State group’s resurgence and highlighted past attacks claimed by the group.
MI5 continues to face challenges in preventing attacks, but McCallum affirmed the agency’s commitment to countering threats, stating, “MI5 has one hell of a job on its hands.”
Associated Press writer Jan M. Olsen in Copenhagen contributed to this report.
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