912: Matthew Dunn | Iranian Hit Squads in the UK and US

Western Operations

Iranian hit squads are actively operating in Western nations, including the UK and the US, targeting Iranian dissidents and critics of the regime. Matthew Dunn, a former MI6 officer, reveals that these squads are composed of highly trained former Iranian security forces, making them a significant threat. They are not limited to major cities like London but can operate anywhere, including places like Bristol and Los Angeles 1.

Iranian agents, operatives will go wherever they need to go.

--- Matthew Dunn

Their operations are sophisticated, involving careful planning and execution, often using cover identities to get close to their targets 2.

   

Targeting Dissidents

The primary targets of these hit squads are Iranian dissidents living abroad, but they also threaten anyone perceived as undermining the regime. Matthew Dunn explains that these operations are not just about eliminating threats but also sending a message back to Iran, showcasing the regime's reach and power 3.

They will attack anybody, essentially, who will undermine the regime.

--- Matthew Dunn

Western intelligence agencies like MI5 and the CIA are actively working to foil these plots, but the complexity and frequency of the attempts make it a challenging task 4.

   

Proxy Operations

Iranian hit squads often use criminal proxies to carry out their operations, allowing them to maintain plausible deniability. This method involves hiring criminals who are financially motivated and willing to perform brutal acts, making it difficult for Western intelligence to trace back to Iran directly 5.

It's a preferred way of doing it.

--- Matthew Dunn

Additionally, the squads are known to monitor specific communities, such as Jewish people in New York, further highlighting their broad and indiscriminate approach to targeting perceived enemies 6.