Foreign-Backed Proxies Behind Antisemitic Attacks in UK Face 14-Year Jail Terms

The UK government is preparing to introduce strict new legislation aimed at tackling antisemitic attacks linked to foreign powers, with offenders facing up to 14 years in prison.

Under proposals expected to be outlined in the upcoming King’s Speech, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood will be granted expanded authority through the National Security Act 2023. These powers will allow the government to formally designate certain proxy organizations as foreign intelligence entities, particularly those believed to be supported by states such as Iran.

The legislation is designed to address the growing use of proxy groups that recruit individuals—often via social media—to carry out acts including terrorism, sabotage, and espionage. Notably, individuals involved in such activities could face severe penalties even if they are unaware they are acting on behalf of a foreign state.

A key focus of the new measures includes groups linked to Iran, such as Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and affiliated networks like Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia, which has reportedly claimed responsibility for multiple antisemitic incidents in the UK.

Authorities say the number of national security cases involving hostile foreign actors has surged significantly in recent months. In response, the Metropolitan Police have expanded their efforts to protect Jewish communities, deploying additional officers and forming specialized protection units.

Recent incidents—including arson attacks on Jewish sites in London and a stabbing in Golders Green—have intensified concerns. Counter-terrorism police are currently investigating several of these cases, including a fire at a former synagogue in Whitechapel.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has publicly condemned Iran’s alleged role in fostering division and violence within British society, emphasizing that such actions will not be tolerated.

Following a high-level meeting involving law enforcement, prosecutors, and community leaders, the Crown Prosecution Service has issued new guidance to accelerate the handling of hate crime cases, aiming to respond more swiftly to the rise in antisemitic incidents.

Officials have warned of an alarming trend, noting that Jewish communities are increasingly being targeted by a range of extremist groups, including far-right organizations, Islamist extremists, and hostile state actors. Despite the focus on antisemitism, authorities stress that combating all forms of hate crime remains a top priority.