Iranian spies have been photographing synagogues and other Jewish buildings in Britain, seemingly in preparation for terrorist attacks. MI5, the security service, and Special Branch officers have discovered Iranians photographing such buildings in London and the Home Counties for some time, with an upsurge of activity over the past two months. Up to 20 Iranians, most studying here legally as students at universities, are involved in the surveillance and two men have been asked to leave the country as a result.
| "Beat it, Mahmoud. Don't come back." |
Mike Whine, the security spokesman for the Board of Deputies of British Jews, said that the authorities were taking the threat seriously. "We have been aware for some time that Iranians are monitoring synagogues and Jewish community buildings," he said. "They have been seen taking photographs and most synagogues are now aware of the threat and keep a look-out. We understand from intelligence received that they are photographing them as possible terrorist targets. We don't know for definite but there could be a link with al-Qaeda."
| More likely for Hezbollah or similar groups. Qaeda has its own fifth column in Britain... |
|