LONDON – Arson and vandalism attacks targeting Jewish institutions in the UK have been attributed to Iranian-backed proxies, according to a statement from the British government.
On Monday, officials declared the right-wing Islamic Brotherhood Movement (IMCR), known formally as Harakat Ahab al-Yamin al-Islam, as a banned group.
Additionally, the powerful Iranian militia, the Revolutionary Guards, has been identified as a national security threat. Following Parliamentary approval of new legislation, this bill could enforce life imprisonment for acts of sabotage conducted on behalf of such groups. The government aims to finalize this legislation by the end of the week.
Security Minister Angela Eagle noted that the IMCR was responsible for seven attacks within the UK. The group publicly claimed responsibility for a series of arson incidents, including the burning of a synagogue and a charity ambulance, along with attacks on Farsi-language media outlets that are critical of the Iranian regime. Fortunately, these incidents did not result in any injuries.
Eagle described the involvement of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force, asserting that they were likely directing the IMCR’s activities across Europe.
The IMCR, which began online activity earlier this year, also took responsibility for attacks on synagogues in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Law enforcement and intelligence analysts have indicated that Iranian-backed proxies are increasingly carrying out attacks in Europe, primarily targeting Jewish communities and critical Farsi-language media.
These groups often recruit individuals from criminal organizations to execute acts of sabotage.
On the same day, it was announced that Britain has designated the GRU Volunteer Forces—a group linked to Russia’s military intelligence—as a threat to national security due to their involvement in covert operations and information gathering on behalf of the GRU.
New measures are expected to aid police and intelligence agencies in handling so-called “thugs for hire” and their supporters.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented, stating that the government is already taking a hard stance against the Iranian regime, its affiliates, and Russian operatives targeting the UK. He emphasized that these new powers would simplify the process of prosecuting those involved in these activities.
This ban is part of a new UK law that took effect last week, granting the government enhanced authority to address proxies engaged in hostile operations for foreign nations.
Earlier this month, two Romanian nationals received prison sentences for fatally stabbing a Persian TV journalist, with the court recognizing the attack as being motivated by the Iranian state.
No immediate response was provided by Iran.
In January, the European Union designated the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization in light of their violent response to domestic protests.
