UK designates Iran's IRGC as terrorist threat, creates 14‑year criminal offense

The United Kingdom Parliament approved a designation of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a threat to national security, adding it to Schedule 6A of the National Security Act 2023. The new Section 17C offense makes it a criminal act—punishable by up to 14 years in prison—to provide, accept, or retain any material benefit that is linked to the IRGC, whether directly or indirectly.

The legislation has immediate implications for UK‑linked businesses, including crypto exchanges and wallet providers, because the wording covers money or value supplied through on‑chain transfers. While the law does not automatically freeze assets, it could bring stablecoins and other crypto payments within its scope, requiring firms to assess whether a wallet or counter‑party is tied to the IRGC and whether the benefit was knowingly received.

Iranian‑British journalist Pouria Zeraati, a target of Tehran’s intimidation, hailed the move as “the happiest day of my life,” saying it gives law‑enforcement new leverage against the regime. The designation places the IRGC on par with other UK‑designated terrorist groups, expanding the legal tools available to counter foreign security threats.