Iranian diplomat summoned over attack on journalist ‘on behalf of Iranian state’
The Foreign Office said the attack formed part of a long-running pattern of hostile activity by Iranian intelligence services in the UK
Iran’s deputy ambassador has been summoned over the attack on a journalist in the UK that a judge said was carried out on behalf of the Iranian state.
Iran International journalist Pouria Zeraati was left bleeding in the street after being stabbed three times outside his home in Wimbledon on 29 March 2024.
Two Romanian nationals were convicted over the attack, and the judge said at the sentencing last week that the evidence “overwhelmingly points” to it being carried out on behalf of the Iranian regime.
Ali Nasimfar, the charge d’affaires at the Iranian embassy in London, was summoned to the Foreign Office by Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer on instruction from the Foreign Secretary.
A Foreign Office spokesman said: “The summons follows the sentencing of two Romanian nationals for their role in the attack on Iran International journalist Pouria Zeraati in March 2024.
“The judge concluded that this attack was carried out in the interests of, and on behalf of, the Iranian state.
“This follows a longstanding pattern of hostile activity by the Iranian intelligence services on UK soil.
“The judge also found that one of the defendants, George Stana, met the foreign power condition under the National Security Act 2023, concluding that the individual knew, or ought to have known, the connection to Iran in relation to the attack.
“We take threats posed by Iran and those who do its bidding extremely seriously.
“Iran’s actions attempt to undermine UK sovereignty and security and are completely unacceptable – it must cease in these activities immediately.
“Protecting national security, upholding media freedom and freedom of expression, remain our top priorities. This government will take all measures necessary to protect the British people, and those living and working in the UK.”
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
