UK intel warns of growing threats from hostile states and terrorism

Britain is facing an increasing threat from hostile states, including Russia, Iran, and China, while the risk from terrorism remains “huge,” with groups such as al Qaeda and Islamic State seeking to inspire would-be attackers, the UK’s domestic spy chief said on October 16, as reported by Reuters.

MI5 Director General Ken McCallum reported a 35% rise in the number of individuals under investigation for activity linked to hostile states. He noted that these nations are increasingly adopting the “ugly” tactics traditionally used by terrorists.

McCallum said MI5 had disrupted “a stream of surveillance plots with hostile intent” originating from Russia and had tracked more than 20 potentially lethal plots linked to Iran. “In 2025, MI5 is contending with more volume and more variety of threats from terrorists and state actors than I’ve ever seen,” he stated during his annual speech at MI5 headquarters in London.

The UK has frequently highlighted hostile activity allegedly carried out by Russia, Iran, and China, although all three countries deny the accusations. Earlier this year, six Bulgarians were jailed for spying on behalf of Russia, carrying out surveillance operations, while five men were convicted for an arson attack on Ukraine-linked businesses in London, which British officials said was ordered by Russia’s Wagner mercenary group.

“With our partners across Europe, MI5 will keep detecting those who take orders from Russian thugs,” McCallum said. “And we will keep following the trails back to those giving the orders, who imagine they’re anonymous and unfindable behind their screens. They’re not.”

He also criticised China for engaging in cyber espionage, luring UK academics to China, covertly interfering in British public life, and harassing pro-democracy dissidents residing in the UK.

Regarding Iran, McCallum said Tehran is “frantically” trying to silence critics abroad. He cited examples, including antisemitic plots uncovered by Australia and a failed assassination attempt revealed by Dutch authorities.

The threat from terrorism in Britain remains “huge,” he added, noting that MI5 and police have disrupted 19 late-stage attack plots since early 2020. “Al Qaeda and Islamic State are once again becoming more ambitious, taking advantage of instability overseas to gain firmer footholds,” McCallum said, highlighting the persistent risk posed by extremist groups.

By Tamilla Hasanova