London-based Persian TV channel halts live broadcasts after threats

A London-based Persian language channel says it has been forced to suspend live broadcasts after UK counterterror police alerted its landlord to a potential threat from Tehran.

Manoto TV, which launched in 2010 and is an opposition channel popular with the Iranian diaspora, says the temporary suspension came as Iran faced one of the “most sensitive moments” in its history.

“At a time when… domestic and regional developments are unfolding at an unprecedented pace, the Islamic Republic’s threats against freedom of speech — aimed at suppressing independent reporting — have intensified,” Manoto TV says in a statement.

“Our landlord has informed us of their intention to terminate our tenancy following notification from the UK’s Counter Terrorism Policing regarding a potential threat against us from the Islamic Republic of Iran Regime,” the private broadcaster adds.

Staff has been blocked from entering the building, resulting in the temporary suspension while alternative arrangements are put in place.

“Our priority is to return to live broadcasting from a safe and stable location as soon as possible,” the station adds.