Story perspectives

UK to Brand Iran's IRGC Terror Threat, Critics Alarmed

7/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the UK will designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a threat, pending parliamentary approval.
The designation, under the State Threats Act with 14-year sentences, follows attacks such as arson on Jewish ambulances, a Golders Green stabbing, and a £250 million pledge to police patrols in Jewish communities.
Independent reviewers warned the bill’s broad language could expose journalists and aid-workers to prosecution for engagement with designated groups.

History

Historical Context

After the 7 July 2005 London bombings, the UK Parliament drafted the Terrorism Act, which received royal assent on 30 March 2006 and introduced new terrorism offences, including a 28-day pre-charge detention limit. Home Secretary Charles Clarke steered the bill, and successive governments have repeatedly expanded powers, a pattern echoed today as Shabana Mahmood moves to list Iran’s IRGC as a designated threat.

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Story summary

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the UK will designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a threat, pending parliamentary approval.
The designation, under the State Threats Act with 14-year sentences, follows attacks such as arson on Jewish ambulances, a Golders Green stabbing, and a £250 million pledge to police patrols in Jewish communities.
Independent reviewers warned the bill’s broad language could expose journalists and aid-workers to prosecution for engagement with designated groups.

1 / 2