UK declares Iran’s IRGC terrorist organization

The United Kingdom has officially designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization in a major shift in its foreign policy.

The decision was announced on Monday, July 13, 2026, and marks a significant escalation in tensions between London and Tehran.

The UK government said the move was made possible through new powers under the National Security (State Threats) Act.

The legislation allows the British authorities to classify certain state-linked foreign groups as terrorist organizations.

Officials said the new legal framework provides greater powers to take action against individuals, organizations and networks connected to groups considered a security threat.

Previous British governments had avoided listing the IRGC due to the complexities involved in designating a powerful organization directly linked to a foreign state.

The latest decision comes amid growing concerns in the UK over the IRGC’s activities in the region and its alleged role in actions affecting international security.

The designation is expected to further increase diplomatic pressure on Iran and could deepen tensions between the two countries.

The IRGC is one of Iran’s most influential institutions, with control over major military and security operations and a significant role in the country’s regional policies.

The move follows calls from British lawmakers and security officials for stronger action against the organization.

Iran has previously rejected similar measures by Western countries, describing such designations as politically driven.