The UK must “actively prepare” for a possible military scenario on its territory.
This is stated in the National Security Strategy report, published today, SkyNews writes.
Russia and Iran – a potential threat to peace
The document notes that this is “the first time in many years” that the government has had to consider such a prospect.
Now watching
The statement came amid the release of Sky News' The Wargame podcast, which simulates a possible Russian attack on UK territory.
The report names Russia and Iran as potential threats, with Iran in particular said to have stepped up “hostile activity” in the UK, both in attempts to “intimidate critics” and as a “direct threat to the UK”.
“Some adversaries are already laying the groundwork for future conflicts, creating the conditions for quickly delivering serious blows to our energy or logistics chains to deter us from countering their aggression,” the document says.
Cyberattacks and risks in the energy sector
Commenting on the report, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the country was “faced with daily challenges on the home front”, saying the UK was being targeted by frequent and extremely serious cyber attacks.
Among other threats, he mentioned security risks in the energy sector following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Iran's activities.
“We must protect ourselves properly against these threats, and we will do so,” Starmer added.
The strategy also says the UK government will conduct annual exercises to test society's preparedness to restore overall resilience.
It also provides for enhanced security around critical national infrastructure, including power plants and water systems, as part of the Homeland Defense initiative.
The report notes that “it is not possible to stop every enemy.” Instead, the UK aims to “make the country a harder target for enemies and criminals.”
