In brief
In a decisive move, the European Union has placed Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on its terrorist list, signaling a strong response to Iran's suppression of protests. The IRGC, a central element in Iran's military and political structures, is now classified alongside recognized jihadist organizations. This action has sparked condemnation from Iranian officials who view it as a tactical error, while international observers cite a troubling death toll among protestors in the unrest following recent demonstrations. The EU has also enacted further sanctions against multiple Iranian officials implicated in the repression.
The European Union has added Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to its terrorist list in response to Tehran's deadly crackdown on protesters in recent weeks.
Repression cannot go unanswered, the bloc's top diplomat Kaja Kallas said, adding the move would put the IRGC - a major military, economic and political force in Iran - on the same level as jihadists like al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group.
Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, described the EU’s decision as a stunt and a major strategic mistake, further highlighting the tension between the two entities.
According to human rights organizations, thousands of protesters have lost their lives due to actions by security forces, including the IRGC, during the unrest that escalated in December and January. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot characterized these events as the most violent repression in Iran's modern history and noted there can be no impunity for the crimes committed.
Previously hesitant, France is now among the EU member states advocating for the IRGC's designation, which was initially pushed forward by Italy.
In response to the protests, Kallas emphasized, Any regime that kills thousands of its own people is working toward its own demise, indicating the EU's belief in accountability for such actions. However, diplomatic relations with Iran are expected to continue, despite heightened tensions.
The EU has also placed new sanctions on six entities and 15 individuals linked to violations of human rights in Iran.
The IRGC is renowned for its substantial influence within Iran, established shortly after the 1979 revolution to uphold the Islamic regime. It is estimated to have approximately 190,000 active personnel and extensive capabilities.
Meanwhile, while nations like Australia, Canada, and the United States have classified the IRGC as a terror organization, the UK has not yet followed suit, maintaining its historical policy approach.
The situation remains fluid as Iranian authorities have reported conflicting casualty numbers, with estimates ranging widely regarding the violence against protestors and the overall unrest.
