Two Arrested in London, Spied on Jews for Iran

British authorities have charged two men with spying for Iran, alleging they carried out surveillance of individuals and locations linked to the Jewish community in London.

Prosecutors said Nematollah Shahsavani, 40, a dual Iranian-British national, and Alireza Farasati, 22, an Iranian national, were charged under the UK’s National Security Act following a counterterrorism investigation.

Police said the alleged activity took place over a five-week period in July and August in north London. The investigation began prior to the current US-Israeli war with Iran.

The two men were arrested earlier this month and are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. Authorities said two additional individuals detained during the same operation were later released without charge.

Counter Terrorism Policing described the case as a complex investigation involving surveillance of targets connected to the Jewish community. Officials emphasized the seriousness of the charges and said the case reflects ongoing concerns about Iranian-linked activity in the UK.

Security services, including MI5, have previously warned about threats tied to Iran, with several plots and arrests reported in recent years.

Police said the charges should reassure Jewish communities that authorities are taking potential threats seriously and will act where necessary to protect public safety.