UK Slaps Sanctions on IRGC Board Members and Commanders
The UK has hit five senior members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) Co-operative Foundation with sanctions. This shadowy outfit funnels cash straight into the Iranian regime’s brutal crackdown on protesters.
Targeting IRGC’s Financial Network and Commanders
- The UK sanctioned key financiers within the IRGC and top commanders.
- The five board members of the IRGC Co-operative Foundation manage the IRGC’s extensive investments.
- Two senior commanders operating in Tehran and Alborz provinces face sanctions over severe human rights abuses.
The IRGC is Tehran’s fearsome armed force branch, controlling Iran’s internal and external security. It has played a central role in violently repressing protests where over 500 people have been killed and tens of thousands imprisoned.
Foundation Fuels Repression and Militant Operations
The IRGC Co-operative Foundation was set up to support IRGC service members but now bankrolls its oppressive activities both inside Iran and abroad.
It also funds militant groups connected to the IRGC’s notorious external wing, the Quds Force, which supports terror groups like Hezbollah and Hamas with training, weapons, and cash. The Quds Force has even been accused of using fake companies in Syria to prop up its activities there.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly’s Warning
“Today we are taking action on the senior leaders within the IRGC who are responsible for funnelling money into the regime’s brutal repression.”
“Together with our partners around the world, we will continue to stand with the Iranian people as they call for fundamental change in Iran.”
Sanctions Hit Provincial IRGC Commanders
The UK also targeted high-ranking commanders abusing their power in Tehran and Alborz provinces.
- Ahmed Zulqadr: Commander of IRGC Seyyed al-Shohada in Tehran province and Deputy Commander in Tehran City.
- Alireza Heydarnia: Commander of the IRGC in Alborz Province.
These sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans. The move sends a clear message: the UK condemns Iran’s regime and backs the Iranian people’s fight for freedom with tough action.
