Iran calls UK's IRGC terror designation 'unjustified'

Britain has officially proscribed Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, a move that makes supporting the group a criminal offense punishable by up to 14 years in prison. The decision, announced by UK ministers, marks the first time the UK has classified a state agency as terrorist.

The designation, influenced by threats to life on British soil and antisemitic attacks, utilizes new legislation to label the IRGC a national security threat. UK Security Minister Angela Eagle noted that the IRGC's activities extend beyond military force to include intelligence operations and proxy actors.

In addition to the IRGC, Britain also banned support for a linked group, The Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right, citing antisemitic attacks. The government has been granted new prosecution powers related to these designations.

Iran's foreign ministry responded by calling the UK's decision "unjustified" and "irresponsible," stating that the IRGC is an official part of Iran's armed forces and accusing London of violating international law.