Amid rising tensions with Britain, Iran has designated its Royal Navy and Royal Air Force as terrorist organisations, while adding the British intelligence agency MI6 to its list of enemy groups.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a statement issued on November 1, 2026, that these measures were taken in response to the policies adopted by the British government over the past year. According to the ministry, the decision was approved by Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.
According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Britain allegedly provided military and logistical facilities in the US and Israel’s war against Iran. Tehran has also cited the use of military bases and other facilities on British soil as a major reason for its decision.
Iran has also objected to the British government’s decision of July 13, 2026, to include the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) under the UK’s State Threats Act 2026.
According to a statement from the Iranian Foreign Ministry, the British intelligence agency MI6 has been designated as an enemy group under Iran’s Counter-Espionage and Cooperation with Enemy States Act.
On the other hand, the British Royal Navy and Royal Air Force have been designated as terrorist organisations under a separate law. This law was passed in response to the US designating the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization.
Iran says these measures have been taken to protect national security and interests and will be implemented from November 1, 2026.
The UK took legal action against Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in July this year, declaring them a threat to its national security.
Under British law, those who support, work for or support the IRGC or certain prohibited activities can be sentenced to up to 14 years in prison.
Iran has described its recent decision as a retaliation for British measures. However, the practical and diplomatic impact of the move between the two countries will depend on the future response and the enforcement of relevant laws.
