Iranian-linked terrorist cells are reportedly thought to be ready to strike the UK if the crisis between London and Tehran escalates further, as supporters of Prime Minister Theresa May's government increased their criticism over Iran's seizing of a British-flagged tanker in the Persian Gulf.

UK intelligence agencies believe that Iran has organized and funded terrorist sleeper cells across Europe and could approve attacks in response to the crisis in the Gulf should it escalate further, The Telegraph reported Sunday night.

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Among senior intelligence officers, Iran ranks behind only Russia and China as the nation state posing the greatest threat to Britain’s national security and the seizure of the UK-flagged oil tanker Stena Impero will have intensified concerns in MI5 and MI6.

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