In a statement issued on Sunday, November 1, the Foreign Ministry condemned the British government's anti-Iranian policies and actions, which it said run counter to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, particularly the principles of respect for national sovereignty and the prohibition of unlawful measures against other countries. It also reaffirmed the Iranian government's resolve to take the necessary measures to safeguard Iran's national security and interests.
According to the statement, Iran’s measures are adopted in response to Britain's anti-Iran actions over the past year, including its involvement in the US-Israeli war of aggression against Iran through providing military bases, facilities and logistical support, as well as its decision to bring the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) under the State Threats Act 2026 on July 13, 2026.
The ministry said the measures are based on a resolution by Iran's Supreme National Security Council and are intended to protect the country's national security and interests.
Under the measures, which took effect upon the publication of the statement on November 1, Britain's Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) has been classified as a "hostile group" under Note 2 of Article 1 of Iran's law on intensifying penalties for espionage and cooperation with the Zionist regime and hostile countries against national security and interests.
The statement also said the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force would be subject to Iran's law on reciprocal action against the United States' designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization, and would accordingly be recognized as terrorist organizations.
The Foreign Ministry stressed that the measures had been adopted in accordance with international law and the principle of reciprocity, adding that the British government would bear responsibility for their consequences.