UK's Burnham urged to address alleged UAE plot against British academic

UK’s Prime Minister Andy Burnham has been called upon by British academic Anas Altikriti to respond to allegations that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) orchestrated a covert operation aimed at surveilling and potentially assassinating him in London. The claims, detailed in a letter sent to Burnham on 21 August 2026, suggest that the UAE funded a mercenary to conduct the operation, raising serious concerns over the safety of individuals critical of Middle Eastern policies within the UK. According to an ITV News investigation published earlier this month, the UAE reportedly paid millions of dollars to Abraham Golan, a dual Hungarian-Israeli citizen who operated the private security firm Spear Operations Group. Golan allegedly traveled to the UK in December 2016 with the intent of targeting Altikriti, the chief executive of the London-based Cordoba Foundation think tank. The investigation, which drew on witness testimony, emails, WhatsApp messages, and financial records, revealed that Golan was being compensated by the UAE through a six-figure annual retainer and additional bonuses, including a $1 million payment weeks prior to his trip. The report further states that Golan collaborated with a former U.S. special forces operative, referred to in the ITV coverage as “Victor,” to locate and monitor Altikriti. In November 2016, Golan reached out to Victor, seeking assistance in establishing contact with Altikriti and the Cordoba Foundation. He offered Victor £50,000 ($68,000) initially, escalating the sum to £100,000 ($136,000) as the operation progressed. During their meetings, Golan shared photographs of Altikriti’s residence and vehicle, along with maps, satellite imagery, and information regarding his daily routines. In one particularly alarming exchange, Golan reportedly discussed the physical elimination of Altikriti with Victor. A former U.S. Navy SEAL associated with the operation allegedly made a gesture indicating the potential for lethal action when questioned about the activist’s fate. Victor, however, eventually distanced himself from the operation after growing concerned about its implications, ultimately deciding it might involve an assassination. Following these developments, Altikriti was visited twice at his London home by police officers who issued warnings about the potential threat to his life. Although the officers did not specify the source or nature of the danger, the incident underscores the gravity of the situation and the apparent failure of UK authorities to intervene effectively. In his letter to Burnham, Altikriti expressed dismay over the perceived lack of governmental oversight and protection. He highlighted the UK’s stated commitment to strengthening ties with the UAE, questioning how such a close relationship could coexist with credible evidence suggesting the UAE had funded an operation targeting a British citizen. Altikriti emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, stating he was willing to meet with Burnham or the relevant minister to discuss the matter directly. The case has sparked broader discussions about the implications of the UK’s strategic alignment with the UAE, particularly concerning national security and the protection of individuals engaged in public discourse. As the situation unfolds, the expectations are clear: for the UK government to provide a thorough explanation of its knowledge of the operation and to take decisive steps to ensure the safety of those under threat.