Iran Condemns UK Ban on Hamas Palestinian Militant Group

Iran’s foreign minister Saturday condemned the British government’s decision on Friday to ban the Palestinian Hamas militant group under UK's Terrorism Act.

Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in a tweet said, “We condemn the UK’s decision to declare the popular movement of HAMAS a terrorist organization. Rights of Palestinians cannot be trampled on by distorting facts.”

The ban on Hamas brings United Kingdom’s stance on the ruling force in Gaza in line with the United States and the European Union.

Britain's interior minister Priti Patel on Friday said, "Hamas has significant terrorist capability, including access to extensive and sophisticated weaponry, as well as terrorist training facilities."

Iran has been the main military and financial supporter of Palestinian militant groups in Gaza, suspected of transferring missile and other military technology that has been used in attacks against Israel.

Iranian government-controlled media also condemned the UK decision voicing support for Hamas.