UK Names Iran's IRGC a National Threat, Supporters Face Life in Prison

ILLUSTRATION UNSPLASH/John Cameron

JAKARTA - British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran was designated a national security threat. Any form of support for the military group is strictly prohibited.

The designation - which is pending approval by parliament - would make it a crime to support or assist the IRGC with a prison sentence of up to 14 years.

As reported by CNN, Monday, July 13, Britain stipulates that anyone who carries out espionage, sabotage, or arson on behalf of the group can face a life sentence.

The Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right (IMCR) and Russia's GRU Volunteer Corps are also included in the government bill aimed at cracking down on activities supported by foreign countries.

IMCR has claimed responsibility for several recent attacks on Jewish communities in Britain.

"We will never allow Britain to become a venue for countries who want to spread fear, division and violence on our streets," said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

"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 carries out their dirty deeds here, in the UK," he continued.