Why it matters:
The U.K.'s Police have just arrested the 5 and have prepared no information on the allegations, some act that would lead to diplomatic turmoil in Tehran-London relations.
What they're saying:
London's Metropolitan Police stated the arrests were carried out in London, Swindon, and the Greater Manchester area and were related to something they call "a suspected plot to target a specific premises."
The British police also announced that their officers were working to see if there were possible motives and to ascertain whether there was any further danger to the public.
The big picture:
British security officials have repeatedly accused Iran of planning terrorist activities in the U.K. but have never presented evidence to support their claims. This has led to concerns that such allegations are politically motivated and contribute to an ongoing Iranophobia narrative.
Details:
- Of the 4 arrested Iranians, two are 29 years old, one is 40 years old, and one is 46.
- The nationality and age of the fifth man are still under investigation.
- The people were arrested in Swindon, Stockport, Rochdale, West London, and Manchester.
State of play:
The British police say it is working on the possible motives without specifying a "particular location," noting that it cannot provide further information at this time.
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