UK Designates IRGC as National Security Threat Amid Rising Antisemitic Attacks

The UK government has designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a national security threat, alongside the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right (IMCR) and Russia's GRU Volunteer Corps. This decision follows a series of antisemitic attacks, including arson against Jewish ambulance services. If approved by Parliament, new powers will allow for 14-year prison sentences for supporting these groups, with life imprisonment for acts of sabotage. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need to protect the UK from foreign state-backed violence. The government is investing £250 million over three years to enhance security for Jewish communities. The designation aims to streamline prosecution of those involved with these groups, reducing the burden of proving foreign connections. This move is part of a broader strategy to counter threats from Iran and Russia on UK soil.

Key Points: • UK designates IRGC and two other groups as threats to national security. • New laws could impose life sentences for sabotage and 14 years for supporting designated groups. • Government allocates £250 million to enhance security for Jewish communities.