• Three Iranian nationals charged with espionage in the UK amidst rising security concerns.
• The accused are Mostafa Sepahvand, Farhad Javadi Manesh, and Shapoor Qalehali Khani Noori.
• Charges stem from activities allegedly conducted between August 2024 and February 2025.
• UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasizes the need to strengthen national security measures.
• These incidents come along with a broader investigation into Iranian activities on UK soil.

Three Iranian nationals have been charged with espionage in the UK after a major investigation by the Metropolitan Police's counterterrorism unit. The individuals named are Mostafa Sepahvand, 39, Farhad Javadi Manesh, 44, and Shapoor Qalehali Khani Noori, 55, and all are residents of London. They are accused of espionage activities on behalf of Iran's intelligence services from August 2024 to February 2025, which includes actions likely to assist a foreign intelligence service, according to Middle East Eye, Al Jazeera, and India Times.

The charges come under the UK's National Security Act, following what Commander Dominic Murphy described as "extremely serious" allegations that stemmed from a "very complex and fast-moving investigation." In addition, Sepahvand faces additional charges related to surveillance, reconnaissance, and open-source research, intending to commit serious violence against a person in the UK, as outlined in reports from Middle East Eye, Al Jazeera, and India Times.

During a court appearance at Westminster Magistrates' Court, all three men were remanded in custody. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that "Iran must be held to account for its actions," underlining the need for stronger national security measures in response to state threats. Reports indicate that a fourth man arrested as part of the investigation has since been released without charge, according to Middle East Eye and Al Jazeera.

These incidents coincide with a broader effort by the UK to enhance its Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS), specifically targeting Iranian activities in the country. Under new regulations set to take effect, all individuals working for Iran’s intelligence services or Revolutionary Guard within the UK will be required to register with authorities or face legal consequences. Such measures reflect the UK government’s commitment to counter covert foreign influences, as highlighted by statements from Middle East Eye, Al Jazeera, and India Times.