UK plans to designate Iran’s IRGC as terrorist group

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to introduce legislation within the coming weeks to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation. The move marks a significant shift in British policy, as the country has historically only applied such designations to non-state actors.

According to a report by the Financial Times, the proposed legislation aims to address long-standing demands from Jewish groups and opponents of Iran’s religious leadership, who have been urging the UK government to take a stronger stance against the IRGC.

If implemented, this would be the first time the UK formally labels the official armed forces of a sovereign state as a terrorist entity. Analysts suggest the decision could have far-reaching diplomatic consequences, particularly for UK-Iran relations and broader geopolitical dynamics in the region.

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The development follows a similar move by the European Union, which decided in February to classify the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. The UK’s potential step is seen as aligning with a wider Western consensus on addressing Iran’s regional activities.

Experts warn that such a designation could escalate tensions between Tehran and Western powers, potentially impacting ongoing diplomatic efforts and regional stability. However, British officials argue that the measure is necessary to safeguard national security and counter perceived threats linked to the IRGC.

Further details of the proposed legislation are expected to emerge in the coming weeks, as the UK government moves forward with this unprecedented policy decision.