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Investigation Urged Over Iranian Influence in Scottish Politics

1/13/2026

44 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

After Iran's January 8 internet shutdown to suppress protests, pro-Scottish independence accounts on X ceased activity.
The accounts Scottish Lad Jake and Proud Scottish lass Fiona may be linked to Iranian influence operations.
They previously shared false claims about Scotland and the UK, including a coup and military actions.
Scottish Conservative MSP Stephen Kerr has called for an investigation into foreign interference in UK politics.

History

Historical Context

Iran has a history of internet shutdowns to suppress dissent, notably during the 2019 protests, which resulted in over 300 deaths. In January 2020, a nationwide blackout aimed to quell unrest following the shootdown of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752. Recent actions against pro-Scottish independence accounts on X suggest a potential Iranian influence operation, raising concerns about foreign interference in UK politics.

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Story summary

After Iran's January 8 internet shutdown to suppress protests, pro-Scottish independence accounts on X ceased activity.
The accounts Scottish Lad Jake and Proud Scottish lass Fiona may be linked to Iranian influence operations.
They previously shared false claims about Scotland and the UK, including a coup and military actions.
Scottish Conservative MSP Stephen Kerr has called for an investigation into foreign interference in UK politics.

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