Iran Criticises UK Decision To Ban Support For Revolutionary Guards

Iran on Tuesday criticised a proposed British move to ban support for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), calling the decision a “hostile act” and rejecting the allegations behind the measure. The dispute comes after the UK government announced plans to introduce new powers aimed at targeting foreign state-linked groups accused of threatening national security.

Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the British government’s decision, describing it as “unjustified, irresponsible and contrary to the fundamental principles and rules of international law.” Tehran said the move was politically motivated and protested against what it called baseless accusations. Iran also summoned the British ambassador in Tehran to formally raise its objections.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that individuals who support or assist the designated groups could face up to 14 years in prison. The proposed legislation is expected to be presented to Parliament this week and would expand the government’s ability to take action against organisations linked to foreign powers.

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The new measures would reportedly cover the IRGC, along with groups connected to Russia’s GRU military intelligence agency and the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right, an Iran-linked organisation accused of involvement in attacks targeting Jewish communities in London. The UK Home Office said the powers would help counter threats including espionage, foreign interference, sabotage and physical attacks.

The announcement follows a series of antisemitic incidents in London earlier this year, including arson attacks targeting synagogues, community ambulances and other Jewish sites. The proposed law also comes after a recent court case in which two Romanian nationals were jailed over the 2024 stabbing of Pouria Zeraati, a presenter for Persian-language broadcaster Iran International. The court said the attack was carried out at Iran’s direction, allegations Tehran has rejected.

The diplomatic dispute highlights rising tensions between Britain and Iran over security concerns and alleged foreign influence operations. While the UK government says the proposed restrictions are designed to protect national security, Iran maintains that the measures unfairly target its institutions and violate international principles.

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