UK Declares Iran's Revolutionary Guard a Terrorist Organisation

The United Kingdom has designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation under new national security powers, marking one of London's strongest actions against Tehran in recent years. The move follows a series of alleged Iran-linked threats and attacks in Britain. Once approved by Parliament, supporting the IRGC will become a criminal offence punishable by up to 14 years in prison.

UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the decision, saying the government would use new powers under the National Security (State Threats) Act to act against organisations accused of carrying out hostile activities on behalf of foreign states. While the designation carries the same practical effect as proscription, it is not legally identical.

The Home Office said the decision came after years of concern over the IRGC's alleged involvement in threats within the UK. Officials referred to an alleged plot targeting two journalists from Iran International television, cyberattacks against British interests and other activities linked to Tehran.

In a statement, the Home Office said, "Having carefully considered all the evidence, the home secretary has concluded that there is sufficient basis to reasonably believe that each of these bodies is engaged in foreign power threat activity, and that each designation is necessary to protect the safety and interests of the United Kingdom."

Government Says IRGC Extends Beyond Military Role

UK Home Office minister Angela Eagle said the IRGC functions as far more than a conventional military force.

"The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is a central component of the Iranian state's security apparatus, answerable directly to Iran's Supreme Leader," she said.

"Its role extends far beyond that of a conventional military force. It encompasses intelligence activity, the use of proxy actors, and the projection of influence designed to advance Iranian state objectives."

Under the new rules, expressing support for or assisting the IRGC could lead to a prison sentence of up to 14 years. The government said the measure would strengthen the ability of police and intelligence agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals acting on behalf of hostile foreign powers.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the legislation would provide authorities with stronger legal powers to deal with state-backed threats.

"These new powers will make it easier to prosecute and lock up anyone carrying out their dirty work here in Britain," Starmer said.

The decision marks a shift from the approach taken by previous governments, which had declined to formally outlaw the IRGC despite increasing calls from lawmakers and security experts.

Iran-Linked Group, Russian Organisation Also Designated

Alongside the IRGC, the UK government also designated the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right (IMCR), an Iran-linked group accused of carrying out a series of attacks targeting Jewish and Israeli communities and Persian-language media outlets in Britain. Officials said the group had claimed responsibility for seven attacks, including an antisemitic arson attack on four Hatzola ambulances in London's Golders Green area in March.

Britain also designated Russia's GRU Volunteer Corps, which officials described as being linked to Russian military intelligence.

The new designations will come into force after receiving parliamentary approval.

The IRGC was created following Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution and has since become one of the country's most influential military and security institutions. It oversees Iran's elite military operations, intelligence activities and regional proxy networks, and has long been subject to Western sanctions over allegations of terrorism, human rights abuses and efforts to expand Tehran's influence across the Middle East.