The National Jewish Assembly (NJA) is gravely concerned following the arrest of eight terror suspects – seven of whom are Iranian citizens – across England this past weekend in what authorities have described as one of the largest counter-terrorism operations in recent years. Reports suggest that at least one cell was actively planning an attack on a Jewish community site, possibly a synagogue, with the plot allegedly foiled just hours before it was to be executed.
While British security services deserve credit for their swift action, the NJA warns that this is yet another wake-up call about the growing threat posed by Iranian-linked extremism on British soil. The Islamic Republic of Iran has a well-documented record of orchestrating terror plots abroad – including against Jewish targets – and the UK is clearly not immune.
“It is utterly unacceptable that Jewish communities in Britain are being forced to live under the shadow of foreign-backed terror,” said NJA Chairman Gary Mond. “This plot is a stark reminder that Iran is not just a geopolitical threat abroad – it is an active menace here at home.”
The NJA joins calls for the UK government to urgently designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation. Despite promises by the current ruling party to do so while in opposition, no action has yet been taken. The failure to follow through sends a message of dangerous complacency in the face of escalating threats.
“We cannot allow bureaucratic hesitation or diplomatic cowardice to prevent necessary action,” Mond continued. “The IRGC is the operational arm of a regime that funds and orchestrates global terrorism. If this weekend’s events don’t justify its proscription, what on earth would?”
The NJA further calls on the Home Office and intelligence services to intensify protective measures for Jewish communities and institutions. British Jews must not be left to rely on luck and timing to avoid tragedy.
“The Jewish community is tired of living with warnings and near misses,” Mond said. “The time for symbolic condemnations is over. The government must act decisively – before it’s too late.”
