Iran designates British Navy and Air Force as terrorist organizations

Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on November 1, 2026, "retaliatory measures" against the United Kingdom. British foreign intelligence MI6 is now considered a "hostile group" in Iran. Tehran has recognized the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force of the United Kingdom as terrorist organizations. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.

Measures concerning MI6

The first measure concerns MI6. From November 1, 2026, this service is subject to Iran's law on tightening penalties for espionage and cooperation with hostile states against national security and the country's interests.

Measures concerning the military

The second measure concerns the army. The Royal Navy and Royal Air Force are subject to Iran's law on countering the US designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. Therefore, Tehran declared both structures terrorist.

Reasons for the "retaliatory measures"

Iran's Foreign Ministry said it was responding to London's "hostile actions" over the past year. According to Tehran, the first reason is the UK's participation in the "war against Iran imposed by the US and Israel." According to the Iranian side, the British provided military and logistics bases and facilities on territories under British jurisdiction for this purpose. The second reason is London's decision of July 13, 2026, to add the IRGC to the list under the state threats law.

Tehran's reaction

Iranian diplomats called the British government's actions contrary to the UN Charter and international law, in particular the principle of respect for national sovereignty.

"London will bear responsibility for the consequences of these measures," the statement said.

Iran's Foreign Ministry stressed that the decisions were taken within the framework of international law and the principle of reciprocity.

Secret network

Iran created a secret network of more than 5,000 military structures through which it purchased components for the production of missiles and drones, bypassing Western sanctions and the American naval blockade.