UK prosecutors accuse the dual British-Azerbaijani national of gathering intelligence on RAF Akrotiri for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
LONDON, United Kingdom — WEB DESK: A British citizen has been charged over allegations of spying for Iran by gathering intelligence on the Royal Air Force (RAF) Akrotiri base in Cyprus, British authorities have announced.
The suspect, identified as Rashad Sultanov, 44, from north London, is accused of conducting surveillance at RAF Akrotiri and allegedly sharing sensitive information with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Arrested in Cyprus
According to media reports, Sultanov, who also holds Azerbaijani citizenship, was arrested by Cypriot police on 17 July and has remained in custody while the investigation continues.
British prosecutors allege that he carried out intelligence-gathering activities linked to the strategically important military installation.
Charges under National Security Act
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said the suspect will be charged under the UK National Security Act 2023.
The case is believed to be the first investigation under the 2023 legislation involving alleged offences examined outside the United Kingdom, highlighting the law’s expanded reach in addressing national security threats.
Strategic importance of RAF Akrotiri
The United Kingdom has maintained a permanent military presence at RAF Akrotiri since the 1950s.
In recent months, the base has played a key role in British military operations in the Middle East, including missions to intercept Iranian missiles and drones during periods of heightened regional tensions.
