The head of MI5, the UK’s security agency, has revealed that Russia’s intelligence agency is trying to create chaos in Britain and Europe. Ken McCallum, in his annual update about security threats, explained that Russian agents have been involved in serious crimes like setting fires, sabotaging property, and other reckless actions since the UK began supporting Ukraine in its war against Russia.
A Rising Threat from Iran
In addition to the Russian threat, McCallum also mentioned that MI5 has dealt with 20 different plots backed by Iran since 2022. However, he noted that most of MI5’s work still focuses on fighting Islamist extremism and extreme right-wing terrorism.
McCallum warned that the mix of dangers from various groups means MI5 has a tough job ahead. He stated, “We face a dizzying range of beliefs and ideologies,” highlighting how complex the situation is.
Disturbing Trends Among Young People
One alarming trend McCallum pointed out is that more young people are getting involved in online extremism. He noted that 13% of those investigated for terrorism are under 18, and this number has tripled in the last three years. This rise is partly due to the influence of the internet, where harmful ideologies can spread quickly.
He explained that many young individuals are being drawn into extreme beliefs while sitting in their own bedrooms, accessing dangerous content online. “Sorting real plotters from armchair extremists is a hard task,” he said, emphasizing the challenge of identifying who poses a real threat.
Recent Threats and Foiled Plots
Since 2017, MI5 has stopped 43 plots involving guns and explosives aimed at committing mass murder in the UK. The agency has seen a 48% increase in investigations related to threats from foreign states. McCallum highlighted that the current terror threat level in the UK is substantial, meaning an attack is likely.
Russian Diplomats and Espionage
The situation has become even more complicated due to the expulsion of over 750 Russian diplomats from Europe since Russia invaded Ukraine. McCallum explained that most of these diplomats were actually spies, which has made it harder for Russian intelligence services to operate effectively. As a result, Russia is now relying on criminals and private intelligence operatives to carry out their dirty work, which is less organized and more prone to disruption.
The Iranian Danger
On the Iranian front, McCallum reported that there have been numerous plots against Iranian individuals in the UK since the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022. He stated that the threat from Iran has not diminished and that MI5 is closely monitoring this situation.
In closing, McCallum urged the public to be aware of these growing threats and reassured them that MI5 is working hard to keep the UK safe. His comments serve as a reminder that while we may feel secure, there are serious dangers lurking, and the threat landscape is constantly evolving. The UK must remain vigilant in the face of these challenges to ensure safety for all its citizens.
