Britain Tightens Grip on Hostile Proxies with New Law

The UK plans to enforce a new law next month targeting proxies acting for hostile states like Iran. The legislation aims to curb activities such as surveillance and sabotage by organisations linked to state threats following antisemitic incidents and arson attacks on Jewish sites with suspected Iranian links.

Britain announced it will implement a new law next month, aimed at curbing activities of proxies working for hostile states like Iran. This move follows a rise in state threat activities, including antisemitic attacks in London and arson on Jewish sites linked to Iran.

The legislation targets state-affiliated groups that pay organized crime rings or petty criminals for activities like surveillance and sabotage. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for consequences against states threatening lives or undermining democracy.

MI5 reported a 35% increase in state-threat investigations last year, with Iran, China, and Russia accused of using proxies, though they reject these claims. The new law also intends to outlaw support for or financial dealings with banned proxies, offering potential 14-year jail terms.