Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the need to adapt responses to national security threats and commended the police and security services for their efforts.

On May 4, 2025, five men, at least four of whom are Iranian nationals, were arrested across various locations in the UK, including London and Manchester, on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act, according to the Metropolitan Police.

These arrests were prompted by credible intelligence indicating a 'major attack' aimed at a specific location, which posed an imminent threat to life.

While the Ministry of Defence does not comment on special forces operations, it is believed that elite soldiers from the SAS assisted police in the counter-terrorism operation.

The operation showcased the collaborative efforts of police across the UK to address potential terrorist threats.

Security analysts indicate that these operations reflect a complex blend of terrorism and espionage, highlighting an evolving threat landscape.

Reports suggest that the potential target of the thwarted attack could have been a synagogue or another site associated with the Jewish community.

Iran has denied involvement in any plots against the UK, and in March 2025, summoned the British ambassador to protest the accusations.

Despite the lack of confirmed connections to Iran, MI5 has warned of a rising threat from attackers linked to Tehran.

The Iranian diaspora in the UK, numbering approximately 80,000 individuals, is under scrutiny as security services warn about potential exploitation by Tehran's intelligence services.

The police described the operation as one of the most significant counter-terrorism efforts in recent years, highlighting the seriousness of the threat.

The UK's current terror threat level remains classified as 'substantial,' indicating that an attack is likely.