CNN Investigation Details How Iran Recruits Europeans To Attack Jewish Targets

A CNN investigation has found that Iran-linked networks may be using Telegram and other online platforms to recruit people in Europe for attacks and surveillance against Jewish and Israeli-linked targets.

The report comes after a wave of antisemitic arson attacks in London and other European cities, including synagogues, Jewish schools, businesses and volunteer-run ambulances.

According to CNN, journalists posing as London-based Telegram users found channels openly advertising themselves as connected to Iranian intelligence. One account told CNN it was looking to “hire anyone who can harm Israeli interests or individuals.”

British counterterrorism police are investigating whether Iran or Iran-linked groups are using criminal proxies to carry out attacks. Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans said investigators are examining whether this is a model of “recruiting violence as a service.”

The recent attacks have been claimed by a shadowy online group called Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia, or HAYI, which emerged online in March and says it targets “Zionist” interests. Analysts cited by CNN said the group may function as a front for Iran-backed activity, allowing Iran to encourage attacks while denying direct involvement.

The investigation also highlighted how recruitment may begin with small paid tasks, such as hanging posters, filming slogans or burning images. Security experts warned that those assignments can later escalate into surveillance, intelligence gathering or violence.

Israeli prosecutors have described a similar pattern in espionage cases involving Israelis allegedly recruited by Iran through Telegram. According to indictments cited by CNN, suspects were first asked to carry out symbolic tasks against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before allegedly filming sensitive locations, including IDF bases, Shin Bet headquarters and the hospital where former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett was being treated.

In one case, a handler allegedly asked an IDF reservist to assassinate his commander for about $33,000. The suspect did not carry out the alleged request.

An Israeli official told CNN that at least 60 Israelis have been indicted on charges of spying for Iran since 2023.

The alleged European network appears to follow a similar logic: use online anonymity, quick cash and low-level recruits who may have no ideological connection to Iran or its proxies. Alicia Kearns, Britain’s Shadow National Security and Safeguarding Minister, told CNN, “They’ll be recruiting anyone they can.”

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said authorities are examining whether a foreign state is behind some of the attacks. “Our message to Iran or to any other country that might seek to foment violence, hatred, or division in society is that it will not be tolerated,” he said.

Iran’s embassy in London denied involvement, calling the accusations baseless and politically motivated.

Jewish communities in Britain have already tightened security. Kenton United Synagogue installed a panic alarm, CCTV and reinforced doors, while service times and event details have been placed behind password protection.