Iran has officially declared the armed forces of certain European countries as terrorist organizations in response to recent measures taken by the European Union against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The announcement reflects Tehran’s strong condemnation of what it considers an unjust and politically motivated decision by European nations.
Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, issued a statement emphasizing that the European Union is fully aware of Iran’s domestic legislation. He stated that all countries participating in the EU’s recent resolution against the IRGC are considered to have their armed forces designated as terrorist organizations under Iranian law. Larijani further warned that the consequences of this action will rest squarely on the European nations responsible for these decisions.
Iranian media highlighted that the Iranian Parliament had approved legislation in April 2019 regarding the IRGC. Under this law, any entity or country attempting to blacklist or target the IRGC is deemed a terrorist organization. The recent EU declaration, which labeled the IRGC a terrorist organization, prompted an immediate reaction from Iran’s armed forces, describing the decision as illogical, irresponsible, and maliciously motivated.
The IRGC, established in the aftermath of the 1979 Iranian Revolution, forms a crucial component of Iran’s armed forces. Operating alongside the regular military, the IRGC reports directly to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and plays a central role in Iran’s national security and regional defense strategy.
Iran’s official response underscores its position that any external attempts to undermine or delegitimize the IRGC are considered hostile acts against Iran’s sovereignty and legal framework, signaling Tehran’s firm stance against international pressures targeting its military institutions.
