The United Kingdom's decision to ban the IRGC is unjustified, irresponsible, and contrary to international law, Iran's Foreign Ministry declared on Tuesday, condemning the United Kingdom's classification as a hostile act constituting a threat under national security law, Al Mayadeen reported.
"The British measure is unjustified and irresponsible and contrary to the fundamental principles and rules of international law," the ministry said, emphasizing the IRGC's status within Iran's military structure, stating: "The Revolution Guards in Iran are an inseparable part of the Iranian armed forces".
It further stressed the Corps' role in national defense, declaring: "The Revolution Guards are responsible, alongside the rest of the armed forces, for defending Iran's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and national security."
The ministry characterized the British decision as a "a provocative act and a violation of international law and the UN Charter," asserting that the measure "is the result of American and Israeli insubordination."
The ministry mentioned Britain's historical complicity with aggressors, adding: "Britain, with its colonial history, is complicit with aggressors and has no moral right to accuse others." It further dismissed the basis for the decision, stating: "The hostile British decision against Iran is based on baseless security claims."
The ministry also leveled accusations against London directly, saying: "Britain itself hosts and supports terrorist networks and groups."
Concluding its response, the ministry affirmed Iran's right to respond while holding Britain accountable. "Iran affirms its retention of all rights under the UN Charter to take countermeasures," the ministry said, adding that, "We hold Britain responsible for the consequences and destructive political, legal, and diplomatic outcomes of this decision".
The British government announced earlier on July 13 that it will designate Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) under new national security powers, deepening already strained relations between London and Tehran.
FA/R
