Iran Condemns UK Designation of IRGC as Terrorist Group, Calls it Desperate and Provocative

JAKARTA - The Iranian Foreign Ministry has criticized the British government for designating the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist group that threatens national security. Britain also imposed sanctions on IRGC supporters.

"The IRGC is an integral part of the official armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran and, together with the Iranian army, is responsible for defending the territorial integrity, national sovereignty, and national security of Iran," the Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

A ministry spokesman called the British decision a "petty and provocative act that violates international law."

The designation - which is pending parliamentary approval - would make it a crime to support or assist the group with up to 14 years in prison, according to a British government statement. Those who commit espionage, sabotage or arson on behalf of the group can face a life sentence.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said authorities had taken action against people linked to Iranian and Russian networks operating in Britain.

"We have taken firm action against the Iranian regime and those associated with it, as well as against Russian agents and networks targeting our country. This new authority will make it easier to prosecute and imprison anyone who commits their dirty deeds here, in the UK," he said.