The United Kingdom has decided to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization under its new national security law. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the decision on Monday, saying it brings the group closer to being formally declared a terrorist entity. The move allows police to take action against anyone providing support to the IRGC. Alongside the IRGC, the UK also banned two other groups: the IMCR, accused of attacks on Jewish targets, and Russia’s GRU Volunteer Corps.

Officials said the decision follows recent threats against the UK, including alleged plots to kill Iranian journalists and cyberattacks targeting Britain, Australia, and Canada. The government had previously refrained from a full ban in 2023 due to diplomatic concerns with Tehran. Ministers now argue the new threats justify stronger measures.

Under the new law, assisting or benefiting from these organizations is now a criminal offense, punishable by up to life imprisonment. The bans are expected to further strain UK-Iran relations while reinforcing Britain’s stance against foreign-linked security threats.