In a statement, the Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned the UK government’s anti-Iran policies and actions, describing them as contrary to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, particularly respect for national sovereignty and the prohibition of unlawful measures against other countries.
The ministry reaffirmed the Iranian government’s determination to take all necessary measures to safeguard the country’s national security and interests.
Citing a resolution by Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, the Foreign Ministry said the measures were adopted in response to a series of hostile British actions over the past year. These included the UK's alleged involvement in the US-Israeli war against Iran through the provision of military bases, facilities and logistical support within territories under British jurisdiction.
Tehran also cited the British government's decision on July 13, 2026, to designate the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) under the State Threats Act 2026.
The measures announced by the ministry are as follows:
1. MI6 designated as a hostile entity
Effective November 1, 2026, the UK's Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) will be designated as a hostile group under Note 2 of Article 1 of Iran's Law on Intensifying Punishments for Espionage and Cooperation with the Israeli Regime and Hostile Countries Against National Security and National Interests.
The ministry said the provisions of the law would henceforth apply to the British intelligence agency.
2. Royal Navy and Royal Air Force designated as terrorist organisations
The Royal Navy and Royal Air Force will be subject to Iran's Law on Reciprocal Action in Response to the United States' Designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Terrorist Organisation.
Under this legislation, both British military branches will be designated as terrorist organisations, effective from the date of the statement.
The Foreign Ministry stressed that the measures had been adopted in accordance with international law and within the framework of the principle of reciprocity, adding that the British government would bear responsibility for any consequences arising from them.
Neda Sajjadi - Maryam Abolbagha
