Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has declared solidarity with Iranian protesters, addressing a demonstration outside the Iranian embassy in London and hailing them as "freedom fighters." The event comes amid mounting pressure on Sir Keir Starmer's government to formally designate Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation.
Farage's Rallying Cry at Embassy Protest
Speaking to a cheering crowd earlier today, Nigel Farage delivered a passionate address in support of those demonstrating against the regime in Tehran. He called the Persian people "wonderful freedom fighters" and proclaimed, "This time are we going to win? Yes we are." Farage acknowledged the "terrible price" paid by innocent people across Iranian cities but insisted, "you have got to believe that this is the moment."
His cry of "Freedom for Iran" was met with loud cheers from the assembled protesters. In a heartfelt response, one woman from the crowd told him, "We really appreciate you. May God bless you and we wish everything good for you."
UK Government Resists Calls to Ban IRGC
This public show of support contrasts sharply with the official position from Downing Street, which continues to resist calls to proscribe the IRGC. The paramilitary force is widely reported to be leading a violent crackdown on pro-democracy protests within Iran, where activists estimate the death toll has reached at least 538 people.
The US State Department has urged the UK to join it in banning the group, stating that such a designation is "merely stating the obvious." A spokesman added, "We encourage all partners to join us and to add pressure on Iran at this critical moment for the Iranian people."
However, the Prime Minister's official spokesman played down the prospect, suggesting the move would be ineffective against a state organisation. The spokesman pointed to comments by former MI6 chief Sir Richard Moore, who cautioned that proscription "won't have practical effect" and might only serve to make "us feel better about ourselves."
Political Pressure and Diverging Views
The Labour government is facing sustained pressure from multiple fronts. Nigel Farage used a press conference on Monday to reiterate his long-standing demand, stating, "We should have proscribed the IRGC years ago, just as we should have proscribed the Muslim Brotherhood years ago."
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch expressed a nuanced position, stating she is not against proscription but highlighted existing powers under the National Security Act. "They are the army of an enemy country," she said. "We don't need to have a ban. There are loads of laws and legislation in place. Let's use them."
Proscribing an organisation makes membership or support for it a criminal offence, punishable by up to 14 years in prison under the Terrorism Act 2000. The government maintains these powers are designed for non-state terror groups, creating a significant policy dilemma as the crisis in Iran deepens.
