UK To Introduce Bill To Ban Iran’s IRGC, Starmer Says Amid Security Concerns

Last Updated:April 25, 2026, 06:35 IST

Keir Starmer vows July legislation to ban IRGC after Iran linked attacks on London Jewish sites, pledges stronger security as antisemitism fears grow.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said legislation will be introduced in July to ban the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), as the government moves to counter what it describes as threats from Iran-linked groups.

Speaking during a visit to Kenton United Synagogue in London, Starmer said the proposed law would be brought forward when Parliament resumes its next session. The visit came days after an attempted arson attack at the synagogue on April 18.

“We do need legislation in order to take necessary measures… and we’ll bring that legislation forward," Starmer said, adding that he was “very worried" about the use of proxy groups linked to Iran.

Starmer was accompanied by Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis during the visit, where discussions focused on community safety and rising concerns over antisemitism.

The prime minister also highlighted recent incidents attributed to groups allegedly backed by Tehran, including an attempted arson attack on the synagogue and the torching of ambulances belonging to a Jewish emergency response group in London. A radical group, Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia, has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Starmer said law enforcement agencies, including counter-terrorism police, are working closely with the community and organisations such as the Community Security Trust to respond to the incidents. He noted that multiple arrests have been made, with charges filed in several cases.

The move to proscribe the IRGC aligns with a long-standing position of Starmer’s Labour Party, which had pledged such action while in opposition.

Addressing concerns within the Jewish community, Starmer said he was committed to ensuring that Britain remains a safe place for Jewish citizens. His remarks came as data showed a rise in immigration of British Jews to Israel, with 872 people relocating last year—reported to be the highest figure in four decades.

Community leaders welcomed the proposed legislation. Phil Rosenberg said the move had long been called for and would help strengthen security against threats linked to Iran and extremist groups.

Chief Rabbi Mirvis described the current mood among British Jews as marked by both “anxiety and resilience," reflecting concerns over safety alongside a determination to remain strong in the face of challenges.

News world UK To Introduce Bill To Ban Iran’s IRGC, Starmer Says Amid Security Concerns

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