UK: 47-year-old Greek remanded in custody for alleged spying for Iran

A 47-year-old Greek national, Ioannis Aidinis, faces charges of espionage in the United Kingdom, accused of aiding an intelligence service linked to Iran. Aidinis, reportedly born in Georgia and having lived in Xanthi, Greece, was arrested in West Sussex on May 16. He appeared before Westminster Magistrates' Court and is now in custody.

British authorities claim Aidinis was involved in surveilling a journalist from Iran International, a London-based Persian-language network critical of the Iranian regime. Prosecutors allege that Aidinis traveled to the UK twice, in April and May, to photograph locations associated with the journalist. He is also accused of planting a covert listening device, hidden within a sock and attached to a tree, capable of transmitting data abroad.

Aidinis, who has resided near Munich, Germany, for several years, previously worked as a builder. His alleged activities have placed Iran International, a media outlet frequently targeted by Tehran, at the center of the investigation. The Metropolitan Police stated there is no indication of a broader threat to the public and are cooperating with relevant agencies to ensure protective measures for those potentially affected.

While the investigation continues, the case highlights the ongoing tensions and alleged intelligence operations involving Iran and entities critical of its government. The UK's National Security Act forms the basis of the charges against Aidinis, underscoring the seriousness with which such allegations are treated.