Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has categorically rejected allegations that his government was involved in a plot to target the Israeli embassy in London. The denial comes after seven Iranian nationals were arrested by British police on suspicion of “terrorism offences” in separate operations.
“Iran in no uncertain terms categorically rejects any involvement in such actions and confirms that we have not been informed of any allegations via proper diplomatic channels,” Araghchi stated on X. He added that Iran has urged the UK to engage in discussions to assist any probe into credible allegations, noting that the “timing and lack of engagement suggest that something is amiss”.
The arrests were made amid heightened concerns about Iranian activities, with Britain’s interior minister Yvette Cooper describing the operation as reflecting some of the biggest threats “we have seen in recent years”. Investigators suspect the men were attempting to obtain weapons to carry out an attack on the embassy.
Araghchi hinted at potential political motivations behind the allegations, referencing a “history of third parties bent on derailing diplomacy and provoking escalation resorting to desperate measures, including false flag operations”. He emphasized that “Iran stands ready to engage to shed light on what has truly transpired”.
Key Developments:
- Arrests: Seven Iranian nationals arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences
- Four men remain in custody, suspected of plotting to attack the Israeli embassy
- Investigators believe the plot was at an advanced but not imminent stage
- Investigation: Police and MI5 working to establish whether the plot was directed by Tehran
- Diplomatic Tensions: Iran calls for clarification on arrests and consular access to detainees
- Background: Talks between Iran and the US on a potential nuclear agreement were delayed, with mediator Oman citing “logistical reasons”¹