The Iranian foreign ministry summoned the British ambassador to Tehran, Hugo Shorter, on Wednesday to formally protest the United Kingdom's recent decision to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. The meeting was conducted by Alireza Yousefi, the assistant foreign minister and director general for Western Europe, who delivered a strong message of condemnation regarding the move.
The British government officially listed the IRGC as a terrorist group this past Monday, exercising new powers granted under the National Security (State Threats) Act. Security Minister Angela Eagle stated in a written address to parliament that the government had identified activities linked to the IRGC that involved intimidation and threats to life on British soil.
During the summons, Yousefi characterized the designation as an unjustified and hostile act. He further criticized remarks made in parliament by British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, labeling the allegations directed at the IRGC as irresponsible, baseless, and inconsistent with international obligations and the principles governing state relations. Additionally, Yousefi accused London of providing a safe haven for members and leaders of various networks that Iran classifies as terrorist organizations.
Defending the role of the IRGC in maintaining Iran's national security and territorial integrity, the Iranian official issued a warning to the British government. Yousefi stated that any hostile legislation targeting Iran or its institutions would be met with a firm and reciprocal response.
