While in May 2000, the MKO was added to the European Union's list of banned groups.

BBC: Profile: Maryam Rajavi

But the US State Department classified the MKO as a "terrorist" group in 1997, and the NCR likewise in 1999.

BBC: Profile: Maryam Rajavi

Abdolmalek Rigy, the leader of the Jondollah militant group, told MKO-TV that said his group was responsible for the bombing, FARS reported.

CNN: Order restored after blast at girls school in Iran

She then gave up her posts in both the MKO's military wing - the NLA - and the MKO proper, leaving leadership of the latter to her husband.

BBC: Profile: Maryam Rajavi

However, MKO officials told CNN they aired no such claim.

CNN: Order restored after blast at girls school in Iran

In 1993, the MKO was officially subordinated to the National Council of Resistance of Iran, or NCR, an umbrella group set up in 1981 by Massoud Rajavi and exiled former President Bani Sadr.

BBC: Profile: Maryam Rajavi