The UK government has introduced the National Security (State Threats) Bill, which aims to provide authorities with new powers to target foreign state-linked organizations. This move comes amid warnings from officials about increasing threats from Iran and other hostile governments. The legislation would allow the Home Secretary to designate groups involved in activities such as assassination plots, surveillance, and sabotage. Although the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) could potentially be designated under this bill, officials have not confirmed if it will be among the first organizations targeted.
British intelligence has reported a rise in Iran-backed activities within the UK, with MI5 Director General Ken McCallum stating that over 20 potentially lethal plots have been tracked in the past year, alongside a 35% increase in state-threat investigations. The bill would impose severe penalties, including prison sentences of up to 14 years for supporting designated organizations or accepting funds from them.
The legislation aims to create a framework for addressing threats from foreign governments and their proxies, an area that critics argue is not adequately covered by existing counterterrorism laws. Labour MP Luke Akehurst emphasized the unique challenges posed by the IRGC, noting its role as a state actor and its impact on freedoms within Iran and the UK. Proponents of the bill believe it will enhance Britain's ability to counter hostile state-backed activities without relying solely on terrorism laws. If passed, the legislation could be enacted as early as next month, with initial designations expected within the first year.