Alleged Iranian Spies Charged with Targeting UK-Based Journalists
In a significant development underscoring concerns over foreign interference, British authorities have charged three Iranian nationals with offenses under the National Security Act. The individuals are accused of conducting surveillance on UK-based journalists associated with Iran International, an independent media outlet critical of the Iranian regime. Details of the Charges The accused—Mostafa Sepahvand (39), Farhad Javadi Manesh (44), and Shapoor Qalehali Khani Noori (55)—were arrested on May 3, 2025, following a counterterrorism investigation. They appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on May 17, where they were charged with: Engaging in conduct likely to assist a foreign intelligence service, specifically Iran's, between August 14, 2024, and February 16, 2025. Conducting surveillance and reconnaissance with the intention of facilitating serious violence against individuals in the UK. Mr. Sepahvand faces additional charges for engaging in surveillance and research activities with the intent to commit […]