Anglo-Iranian activists have staged a demonstration in central London, urging the British government to formally ban Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation. The call comes as the Tehran regime continues its violent suppression of widespread protests, which has reportedly left dozens dead and thousands detained.
Protests at Downing Street Demand Action
Demonstrators gathered outside Downing Street on Sunday, 11 January 2026, demanding decisive action from the Prime Minister. The IRGC, a special armed forces unit, is at the heart of the state's crackdown within Iran. While the group is already subject to significant sanctions, protesters argue that proscription as a terrorist entity is the necessary next step.
Laila Jazayeri, director of the Association of Anglo-Iranian Women in the UK, addressed the crowd. She stated that the IRGC had "already gone too far" and called on the UK leader to proscribe the "deadly force" responsible for killing citizens inside Iran. Jazayeri emphasised that the Iranian people themselves are capable of challenging the regime, but face heavily armed security forces while protesting empty-handed.
A Regime "Killing in Silence"
A key issue highlighted by activists is the Iranian regime's restriction of internet access, a move described as an attempt to "kill in silence." Most information from the protest zones is reportedly being shared via Starlink satellite transmitters. Jazayeri called on the UK Government to assist in restoring internet access for the Iranian populace, arguing it is a crucial form of support.
"The regime has shut down the internet to kill in silence. (The UK Government) should help get access to internet for the Iranian people," she told the Press Association.
Government Response and Global Dissent
When questioned about the possibility of proscribing the IRGC, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander indicated the decision rests with the Home Secretary. Speaking to Sky News, Alexander said, "It’s a very thorough process... I’m not going to second-guess the decisions of the Home Secretary on a matter as significant as this." She added that the government keeps such proscription decisions "under constant review."
The dissent against the Iranian government has resonated globally. In a related incident in London, a protester tore down the Iranian flag from the country's embassy the day before the Downing Street demonstration, underscoring the international spread of anger against the regime's actions.
