UK-based Iranian journalist attacked outside London residence

Prominent Iranian journalist Pouria Zeraati has been targeted in a violent attack outside his London residence.

The incident, which occurred on Friday afternoon, has sparked a counter-terrorism investigation led by the Metropolitan Police.

Zeraati, a presenter for the independent Persian-language channel Iran International, sustained leg injuries during the assault. 

The journalist is currently hospitalized and recovering well, according to a statement released by the channel’s spokesperson, Adam Baillie.

Authorities are treating the attack with heightened seriousness due to past threats against Iran International and its staff.

Baillie revealed that the channel, along with BBC Persian, has faced escalating intimidation from the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) for over a year. These threats have ranged from online harassment to the questioning and detainment of journalists’ family members residing in Iran.

The timing of the attack also raises concerns. It comes just months after UK authorities thwarted plots by Iranian agents to kidnap or kill individuals deemed hostile to the Tehran regime on British soil. 

Additionally, Iran International has been a vocal critic of the Iranian government, particularly its response to the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who passed away in custody after being arrested for violating the country’s dress code for women.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear, but the Metropolitan Police are keeping all options open.

Zeraati’s profession as a journalist for a prominent Iranian media outlet operating in the UK is a significant factor being considered in the investigation.

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the UK and Iran, particularly regarding the treatment of journalists and dissidents.

The UK government has previously imposed sanctions on Iran for human rights abuses and hostile activities against its opponents within British borders.