Iran Summons British Ambassador Over UK IRGC Ban

Iran Warns Britain After IRGC Ban and Diplomatic Protest Escalates

By News Desk On Jul 16, 2026

TEHRAN: (Web Desk) – Iran has summoned Britain’s ambassador to Tehran in protest over the UK government’s decision to ban the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), warning that the move will receive a firm and reciprocal response.

According to Iran’s state news agency IRNA, British Ambassador Hugo Shorter was called to the Foreign Ministry on Wednesday after London placed the IRGC under the State Threats Prevention Act. Iranian officials described the decision as unjustified and said it would not go unanswered.

Tehran stated that Britain’s action would be met with a “reciprocal and decisive response,” signaling growing diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

The UK government announced on Monday that it intends to ban the IRGC, citing concerns over national security. The measure also targets an Iran-linked organization accused of carrying out attacks against the Jewish community in Britain.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said anyone found supporting or assisting the banned organizations could face prison sentences of up to 14 years. The proposed legislation is expected to be introduced in Parliament this week.

Alongside the IRGC, the planned law would also cover groups linked to Russia’s GRU military intelligence agency and the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right, an Iran-linked organization that has claimed responsibility for attacks on Jewish properties in London.

The new legislation grants the British government expanded powers similar to proscription laws, allowing authorities to designate foreign state-backed groups considered a threat to the UK’s national security.

The Home Office said the measures are intended to strengthen Britain’s ability to tackle espionage, foreign interference, sabotage and physical attacks linked to hostile foreign states.

The announcement follows a series of antisemitic incidents in London earlier this year, including arson attacks targeting synagogues, Jewish community ambulances and other Jewish facilities.