IRGC Designation has increased diplomatic tensions between Iran and the United Kingdom. Iran summoned Britain’s ambassador on Wednesday to protest London’s latest security measures against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
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According to Iran’s foreign ministry, the government strongly objected to Britain’s decision. Officials warned that the move “would not go unanswered,” a statement carried by Tasnim news agency said.
Meanwhile, Britain summoned Iran’s Charge d’Affaires, Ali Nasimfar, a day earlier. UK officials accused Iran of directing proxy groups to carry out attacks across Europe in recent months.
Earlier this week, the British government placed the IRGC and an affiliated group under the Countering State Threats Act. Officials said the new powers will help prevent foreign states from using proxy organisations for surveillance, sabotage and other hostile activities.
In addition, the government introduced draft legislation in Parliament to ban support for the IRGC. Ministers said the proposal aims to strengthen Britain’s response to espionage, foreign interference and politically motivated violence.
If Parliament approves the bill, anyone who invites support for the IRGC could face criminal charges. The proposal also bans material assistance, financial support and activities that benefit the organisation.
Furthermore, Britain added the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right (IMCR) to the new security list. Officials said the Iran-backed group claimed responsibility for seven attacks on Jewish sites in the UK earlier this year.
The government also designated Russia’s GRU Volunteer Corps under the same legislation. According to British authorities, these are the first organisations listed under the new state-threat framework.
Overall, London says the measures will strengthen national security and counter hostile activities backed by foreign states. However, Tehran has rejected the decision and warned that it will respond through diplomatic channels.
