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May 19, 2026 – UK/Iran –
A British court has heard allegations that the 2024 stabbing of Iranian-British journalist Pouria Zeraati in London was a coordinated attack carried out by men allegedly acting on behalf of the Iranian state. Prosecutors told Woolwich Crown Court that the assault was carefully planned and intended to intimidate a journalist working for Iran International, a Persian-language broadcaster critical of Tehran.
Zeraati was attacked near his home in Wimbledon in March 2024 and stabbed three times in the leg. He survived the assault and was released from the hospital shortly afterward. According to prosecutors, the attack was not random or connected to robbery, but instead followed surveillance and prior preparation. Two Romanian nationals, Nandito Badea and George Stana, have been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Both men deny the charges.
During the opening stages of the trial, prosecutors argued that the suspects acted as proxies for Iran and were directed by a third party connected to the Iranian government. The court also heard claims that Iranian authorities have increasingly relied on criminal networks abroad to target critics, dissidents, and journalists outside the country. Iran has denied involvement in the stabbing.
The prosecution said Zeraati had previously been publicly identified by hardline figures in Iran because of his journalism. Posters reportedly displayed in Tehran in 2022 featured several media workers, including Zeraati, under threats aimed at opposition-linked journalists.
The case has renewed concerns about the safety of exiled Iranian journalists living in Britain and Europe. Iran International has previously reported receiving threats against its staff, while British authorities have warned about rising risks linked to foreign state intimidation operations. The trial continues as prosecutors seek to demonstrate that the attack formed part of a broader effort to silence critical reporting beyond Iran’s borders.
British investigators linked the case to wider concerns surrounding transnational repression and threats targeting Persian-language media organizations based in London. Security measures around broadcasters had already been increased following warnings. The proceedings are being closely watched by press freedom groups, who say the case highlights dangers faced by journalists reporting critically on the Iranian government.
Reference –
https://www.iranintl.com/en/202605180418
