Iran designates the British naval and air forces as terrorist organisations

Summary: Iran has designated Britain’s Royal Navy and Royal Air Force as terrorist organisations, while adding the British intelligence agency MI6 to its list of enemy groups. According to Tehran, these measures were taken in response to Britain’s alleged support for the US and Israel in the war against Iran and London’s actions against the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Tehran: Iran has designated the UK’s Royal Navy and Royal Air Force as terrorist organisations and added the British intelligence agency MI6 to its list of hostile groups. Tehran took this step in response to Britain’s alleged actions against Iran.

According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, the decision was made under a resolution of the country’s Supreme National Security Council. The measures, which will come into effect from November 1, 2026, aim to protect Iran’s national security and interests.

In its statement, the Foreign Ministry accused Britain of supporting the US and Israel in military operations against Iran. According to Tehran, Britain played a role in these operations through military bases, facilities and logistical support within its borders.

Iranian officials have also cited the British government’s decision of July 13, 2026, as the main reason for this move. The UK has included the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps under the State Threats Act 2026.

According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, the British intelligence agency MI6 has been designated as an enemy group under the provisions of Iran’s Espionage and Cooperation with Enemy States Act. On the other hand, the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force have been listed as terrorist organisations under the Iranian law on countermeasures.

Iran has justified its decision in accordance with international law and the principle of retaliation. The Foreign Ministry says the British government will be responsible for the possible consequences of these actions.

On the other hand, the UK has taken legal action against the Revolutionary Guard Corps, calling it a threat to its national security. Under British law, those who support the Revolutionary Guard Corps in the country can be sentenced to up to 14 years in prison.

The latest developments between Iran and the UK indicate further tension in relations between the two countries. However, the legality of Tehran’s decision is limited to Iranian law and cannot be considered equivalent to being designated a terrorist organization by an international body at the global level.