UK Proscribes Iran's IRGC Under New Security Law
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Security
Why in news
The UK has formally designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) under its new National Security (State Threats) Act, making it a criminal offence to support or assist the organisation. This is the first use of powers under the 2026 Act, with supporters facing up to 14 years in prison.
Background
The IRGC is a branch of Iran's armed forces that has been designated as a terrorist organisation by several countries, including the US. The UK had previously only proscribed the IRGC's Quds Force, not the entire corps.
Key facts
The UK designated the IRGC under the National Security (State Threats) Act 2026.
The designation took effect on July 17.
Supporting or assisting the IRGC is now a criminal offence in the UK.
Those found guilty of backing the IRGC or receiving payments from it face up to 14 years in prison.
This is the first use of powers under the new Act.
Prelims pointers
- National Security (State Threats) Act 2026
- Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)
- UK-Iran relations
- Proscription of terrorist organisations
Mains angles
- GS2: Bilateral relations between UK and Iran, impact on regional security
- GS2: International law and counter-terrorism measures
- GS3: Security challenges and state threats