Iran Labels UK Armed Forces as Terrorist Organizations

British citizens serving in the Royal Air Force or Royal Navy now face a new legal classification from the Iranian government. Tehran has officially designated both military branches as terrorist organizations. The move signals a sharp escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry issued a formal statement to confirm the new status. The ministry also labeled the UK's secret intelligence service, MI6, as a hostile group. These designations follow a specific legal principle of reciprocity that Tehran claims under international law.

The decision serves as direct retaliation for actions taken by London in July 2026. On July 13, the UK government designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a threat to national security. This action was carried out under the State Threats Act 2026.

Tehran cited the UK's broader support for the war against Iran as a primary driver for the new sanctions. The statement noted that Britain provided military and logistical bases and facilities located in territories under British jurisdiction. These assets supported the US and Israeli military operations against Iran.

The Foreign Ministry warned that the British government must bear responsibility for the consequences of these measures. The statement described the UK's actions over the past year as hostile policies toward the Islamic Republic of Iran.