WANA (Jul 14) – Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned the British government’s decision to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a threat under the UK’s National Security Act, calling the move unjustified, irresponsible, and contrary to the fundamental principles of international law, including the sovereign equality of states and the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of states.

 

The ministry said the IRGC is an integral part of the official armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran and, alongside the Iranian Army, is responsible for defending Iran’s territorial integrity, national sovereignty, and national security. It added that the IRGC’s role in defending Iran, promoting regional peace and security, and combating ISIS terrorism is well known.

 

The statement said the UK’s decision to apply a security label to an official institution of a sovereign state is provocative, degrading, and in violation of international law and the UN Charter.

 

It added that the decision comes as West Asia is facing a severe crisis due to U.S. actions and Israeli military operations, and said the move reflects poor judgment by those who approved it.

 

The Foreign Ministry said Britain, given its history of intervention in the internal affairs of other countries and its colonial policies, particularly in West Asia, has no moral standing to accuse others.

 

It also said that, during the recent U.S.-Israeli military attacks against Iran, Britain acted as an accomplice to the attackers, citing remarks attributed to the NATO Secretary General.

 

The ministry further said the UK’s decision was based on unfounded security allegations, while Britain itself hosts and supports terrorist and violent groups.

 

Iran said it reserves all its rights under the UN Charter and international law to take reciprocal measures in response to the UK’s decision, adding that the British government will bear responsibility for the political, legal, and diplomatic consequences of what it called the anti-Iranian decision.