UK Moves to Ban Support for Iran’s IRGC
The United Kingdom has moved to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a national security threat under new state-threat legislation. The proposed restrictions would criminalise support for the IRGC and expand authorities’ powers to prosecute people acting on its behalf in Britain.
UK Moves to Restrict Support for IRGC
The government submitted draft regulations to Parliament that would make it illegal to invite or express support for the IRGC, assist its UK-related activities or accept material benefits from the organisation.
The designation requires parliamentary approval before taking effect. People involved in serious offences such as sabotage or arson on behalf of designated groups could face life imprisonment under the new security framework.
Unlike conventional proscription under terrorism legislation, the measure uses recently introduced powers designed specifically to address hostile activities linked to foreign states.
Iran-Linked Attacks Prompt UK Action
The decision follows a series of attacks targeting Jewish-linked sites in Britain, including the burning of community ambulances in London.
British authorities accused an Iran-backed organisation called the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right of claiming responsibility for several attacks. Officials alleged that the group operated with support connected to Iran’s Quds Force, which forms part of the IRGC.
The organisation was also designated under the new powers alongside the IRGC.
Britain Expands State Threat Measures
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the measures would make it easier to prosecute individuals carrying out espionage, sabotage, intimidation or physical attacks for foreign governments.
The UK also designated Russia’s GRU Volunteer Corps, accusing it of using covert operations to threaten European and NATO security.
The government said the measures were intended to close gaps in existing laws covering foreign states and their proxy organisations.
