UK designates Iran's IRGC as terrorist organization

The United Kingdom has formally designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, a move that has drawn swift and forceful condemnation from Tehran and marks a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two nations. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the decision on July 13, 2026, under new powers granted by the National Security Act.

The designation makes it a criminal offense to invite support for, express sympathy with, or materially assist the IRGC within the UK. Those found guilty could face severe penalties, including potential life imprisonment for acts of sabotage or arson, and up to 14 years in prison for other forms of support. The government stated the action was taken after identifying IRGC-linked activity involving threats to life and intimidation on British soil. Alongside the IRGC, the UK also designated the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right (IMCR), an Iran-backed group blamed for a series of arson attacks on Jewish sites in Britain earlier this year, and a volunteer corps linked to Russia's GRU military intelligence service.

In response, Iran's Foreign Ministry issued a statement on July 14,...