UK Designates IRGC Terrorist Group as Iran Summons Ambassador

The Government of the United Kingdom designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization on July 15, 2026. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the move under the National Security (State Threats) Act, making support for the IRGC a criminal offense punishable by up to 14 years in prison. British officials allege that Iran utilizes the IRGC to direct proxy groups to conduct surveillance and sabotage throughout Europe.

The decision followed years of advocacy from the National Council of Resistance of Iran and pressure from the British Committee for Iran Freedom and MP Bob Blackman. Maryam Rajavi, the NCRI's President-elect, welcomed the move but urged the complete dismantlement of the IRGC to establish a democratic republic in Iran.

In response, the Government of Iran summoned the British ambassador to Tehran to protest the designation. Iranian officials described the allegations as unfounded and unjustified, asserting that the IRGC is an official branch of Iran's armed forces. This diplomatic escalation followed a July 14 event where Britain summoned Iran's Charge d'Affaires, Ali Nasimfar, in London. Iranian official Alireza Yousefi characterized the UK's action as inconsistent with international obligations and warned of a reciprocal response.