UK Intelligence Chief: Russia and Iran Among Biggest Threats to the United Kingdom

London, Oct 13 (KUNA) -- British domestic intelligence chief Sir Ken McCallum said on Tuesday that Russia, Iran, and the misuse of artificial intelligence technology have posed growing threats to the United Kingdom over the past decade. In his annual speech, Sir McCallum explained that these threats have compelled MI5 to bolster its resources and capabilities to counter them. He emphasized that Russia remains the primary threat, “as it employs hybrid warfare tactics that include cyberattacks, sabotage, and the use of criminals to destabilize Europe and the UK.” He revealed that more than 1,000 Russian intelligence officers had been expelled from the UK since the start of the war in Ukraine, noting that while this had reduced Russia’s espionage capabilities, it had simultaneously increased Russia’s reliance on criminal networks. Regarding Iran, he disclosed that more than 50 arrests were made last year in connection with activities linked to Tehran, and expressed the possibility of Iranian involvement in the incident at RAF Fairford, where seven individuals were arrested and released on bail after suspicious activity was detected near the military base. He affirmed that his country would confront threats linked to foreign actors—whether Iran, Russia, or even China—with force and maximum speed, by activating the National Security Act 2023. On the issue of domestic terrorism, McCallum pointed to the rise of right-wing extremism, particularly among youth and via online platforms. Britain announced on Monday the imposition of restrictive measures on two Iranians suspected of facilitating or carrying out “hostile activities on behalf of the Iranian regime,” including planning or executing attacks abroad. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated in a statement that the UK had decided to include the two individuals on its sanctions lists for their role in facilitating or participating in hostile activities on behalf of the Iranian regime, with the aim of threatening, planning, or carrying out attacks overseas. (End) A.S.H / S.A.M