Transnational Suppression of Iranian Opponents in Britain; Guns Aimed at Our Heads

On Monday, December 18, the Guardian reported, citing statements from some Iranian opponents in Britain, that the 'transnational suppression' of them by the Iranian government continues. At the beginning of this report, an Iranian student at the University of Manchester named Soudeh discussed threatening messages and face-to-face intimidation from supporters of the Islamic Republic due to her role in organizing protests against the killing of Mahsa (Zhina) Amini. She mentioned that at one of these gatherings, a supporter of the Islamic Republic whispered her father's home address in Iran and threatened her that her sister would face the consequences of her activities in Britain. Soudeh stated that she cannot return to Iran and feels insecure even in Britain if the government does not take action to identify the threats. The report also referenced statements from former British Prime Minister David Cameron, indicating that there have been at least 15 credible threats of murder or kidnapping against British citizens or residents since the beginning of 2022. Another human rights activist from the 'United for Mahsa' group told the Guardian that many Iranian activists have been forced to stop their activities or resort to operating under pseudonyms due to threats from agents of the Islamic Republic against their lives. Vahid Beheshti, a former political activist who went on hunger strike to have the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps recognized as a terrorist organization by the British government, was threatened by someone saying, 'I will cut your throat today.' According to Mr. Beheshti, Iranian opponents of the Islamic Republic live under conditions where 'guns are aimed at their heads.' The Guardian reported that he told the police he feels like he is living his last day every day. Another activist named Donya told the Guardian that after launching a campaign called 'Be the Voice of Iran,' she faced severe cyber harassment, including identity exposure. Donya added that she is now more cautious about what she shares online and always goes to subway stations with someone else after protest gatherings in London or informs her friends of her location and schedule. The Guardian quoted a spokesperson for the London police stating that officers specialized in close contact with victims of these actions by the Islamic Republic continuously provide them with safety and security advice. Britain: New sanctions against the Islamic Republic will be implemented. Request from 60 British lawmakers to Sunak: Include the IRGC in the terrorist list. British intelligence officials: The Islamic Republic is a serious threat to British citizens. The Sunday Times: Britain considers the IRGC to be the 'biggest threat' to its security. The Jewish Chronicle reports on the IRGC's influence in the 'heart of Britain'; Jason Bradski: The IRGC must be recognized as 'terrorist.' Cooperation of an Iranian-origin professor in Britain with Sharif University despite sanctions.