Two men charged over alleged Iran-linked surveillance of London Jewish community
Mar 18th 2026
Two Iranian men have been charged under the National Security Act after police said they carried out reconnaissance of Jewish targets in London on behalf of Iran; a court appearance is set for Thursday.
- Nematollah Shahsavani, 40, a dual British-Iranian of North Finchley, and Alireza Farasati, 22, an Iranian national of Edgware, were charged.
- They face offences under the National Security Act for contacts said to be likely to assist the Iranian intelligence service between 9 July and 15 August 2025.
- The Crown Prosecution Service says the alleged activity included reconnaissance of targets linked to Londons Jewish community.
- Both men were arrested earlier this month and are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Thursday.
- Two other men arrested in the same operation have been released without charge and police say the investigation is linked to Iran.
Articles
- Two men charged with allegedly spying on London Jewish community for Iran www.theguardian.com
- Two Iranians charged under National Security Act www.bbc.com
- 2 Charged With Surveillance for Iran on London’s Jews www.nytimes.com
- Two charged with spying on London Jewish communities on behalf of Iran www.ft.com
- 2 men charged with spying on UK Jewish communities for Iran www.politico.eu
- 2 Men Charged With Spying for Iran on Jewish Institutions in UK www.nytimes.com