The United Kingdom has summoned Iran’s ambassador and sanctioned two Iranian nationals over alleged threats to its national security. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband announced the measures on Monday through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The move comes amid growing tensions between London and Tehran over alleged hostile activities linked to Iran.
The two sanctioned individuals are Ruhollah Bazghandi and Shahram Ali Reza Tamarzadeh Jakki. British authorities identified Bazghandi as the head of counterespionage operations within Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). They described Jakki as a facilitator of the Zindashti criminal network. Both men now face asset freezes, travel bans and restrictions on serving as company directors. The UK says the sanctions target their alleged roles in planning, supporting or carrying out attacks overseas.
Miliband condemned what Britain considers Iran’s continued attempts to threaten its security. He said Iranian-linked criminal networks and proxy groups pose serious concerns for the UK and its international partners.
“Iran’s continued attempts to undermine the security of the United Kingdom and international partners through its criminal networks, proxy groups and state-backed malign activity is unacceptable,” he said.
He also confirmed that he had instructed his department to summon Iran’s ambassador to reinforce Britain’s position.
“As we have repeatedly made clear to Iran, Britain will not tolerate threats on our soil,” Miliband added.
The Foreign Secretary also pledged further action against activities that threaten British security. He said the government would continue using sanctions and other measures to hold those involved accountable. However, he maintained that the UK’s commitment to national security remained firm.
“This Government will never waiver in our commitment to tacking Iran’s unacceptable actions and protecting our national security,” he said.
Britain has also designated the IRGC under its state threats powers and sanctioned individuals linked to alleged hostile activities. The latest move adds to the diplomatic strain between London and Tehran.
