Three Iranian nationals appeared in a London court on June 6, accused of aiding Tehran’s intelligence service and plotting violent acts against journalists critical of the Iranian government, under newly enacted UK security legislation.

The suspects — Mostafa Sepahvand (39), Farhad Javadi Manesh (44), and Shapoor Qalehali Khani Noori (55) — face charges under Britain’s National Security Act, aimed at countering threats from hostile states. Prosecutors say their alleged activities between August 2024 and February 2025 were intended to assist Iran’s foreign intelligence agency.

Authorities believe the targets included journalists working for Iran International, a UK-based Persian-language broadcaster frequently critical of Tehran.

Surveillance and Planned Violence

Sepahvand is accused of conducting surveillance in preparation for committing serious violence, while Manesh and Noori are charged with gathering intelligence to enable others to carry out such acts.

All three men appeared via videolink at London’s Old Bailey and intend to plead not guilty, according to their legal teams.

Wider Counterterror Operation

The arrests occurred alongside a broader counterterrorism sweep in May, which saw five additional suspects, including four Iranian nationals, briefly detained and later released without charges.

Legal Proceedings Ahead

The three men have been remanded in custody. A formal plea hearing is scheduled for September 26, with the full trial expected to commence in October 2026 — marking one of the most high-profile espionage-related cases involving Iran in the UK in recent years.