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

The arrests followed a significant counter-terrorism operation that thwarted a suspected Iranian terror attack on a specific UK target just hours before it could be executed.

The UK government recently imposed sanctions on the Iranian-affiliated group Foxtrot for alleged criminal activities against Jewish and Israeli citizens, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.

Counter-terror officers and special forces conducted raids on two suspected Iranian cells, reflecting the ongoing threat posed by groups allegedly acting on behalf of the Iranian state.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the seriousness of these arrests and commended the police and security services for their efforts in maintaining national safety.

As MI5 and the Metropolitan Police manage the challenges posed by hybrid threats, they face stretched resources, prompting a need for an evolution in the UK’s counter-terrorism strategy.

While the police have assured the public that there is 'no immediate threat,' the lack of details regarding the plots has created unease among residents.

Commander Dominic Murphy noted that the investigation is in its early stages, with ongoing efforts to identify motivations behind the plot and assess public safety.

Eyewitness accounts from the areas where the arrests took place described significant police activity, including armed officers, which caused panic among local residents.

The diplomatic relationship between the UK and Iran is currently strained, exacerbated by Iran's nuclear ambitions and support for terrorist proxies.

The UK's current official terror threat level is classified as 'substantial,' indicating that an attack is likely, which has heightened concerns following these arrests.

These operations highlight the complex national security challenges faced by the UK, particularly from hostile regimes like Iran.