Tehran rejects UK move against IRGC
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Foreign Ministry rejected Britain's designation of the IRGC as a hostile entity, stressing that the force is an official branch of Iran’s Armed Forces entrusted with protecting the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security.
The ministry highlighted the IRGC’s role in regional security, particularly its operations against the Daesh terrorist group, describing its contribution to regional stability as internationally recognized.
It argued that labeling an official military institution of a sovereign state as a security threat constitutes a breach of international law and the UN Charter, characterizing the British decision as a provocative step taken amid escalating tensions in West Asia.
The statement also criticized London’s foreign policy record, citing Britain's history of colonial intervention and alleged interference in the affairs of other countries. It further accused the UK of supporting the recent US-Israeli military actions against Iran.
Iran additionally rejected what it called Britain's reliance on “baseless security claims,” while accusing the UK of providing refuge and support to terrorist and extremist groups.
The Foreign Ministry warned that Tehran reserves the right to take reciprocal measures in accordance with international law and the UN Charter, holding the British government responsible for any political, legal, or diplomatic consequences resulting from the decision.
The UK announced the new restrictions on Monday, placing the IRGC under measures introduced through the National Security Act, which London says mirror powers used to restrict organizations under its counterterrorism legislation.
