UK Classifies Iran's IRGC as Terrorist Organization

The British government has designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization under the National Security (State Threats) Act. This decision was announced by Security Minister Angela Eagle, who stated that British authorities have identified activities linked to the IRGC that involve threats and intimidation on UK soil. The designation allows for criminal charges against those who support or assist designated groups in the UK.

In addition to the IRGC, the government is also designating the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right (IMCR), an organization linked to Iran, in response to a series of attacks targeting the Jewish community in Britain. Furthermore, the volunteer corps of Russia's GRU foreign military intelligence agency is being designated due to what the government describes as sabotage and other hostile activities directed against the UK and Europe.

A ministerial statement indicated that Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood must reasonably believe that an organization is involved in foreign power threat activity and determine that its designation is necessary for the safety and interests of the United Kingdom. After reviewing evidence and receiving advice from government and operational partners, the Home Secretary concluded that the statutory requirements for designating all three organizations had been met.

This move follows the expedited implementation of the National Security (State Threats) Act, which aims to disrupt individuals advancing the interests of designated organizations. Jonathan Hall KC, the Independent Reviewer of State Threats Legislation, had previously recommended the establishment of a classification power to complement existing measures such as sanctions.