Brussels, Jan. 29 (GeokHub) European Union foreign ministers on Thursday approved new sanctions targeting Iranian individuals and entities involved in the recent violent crackdown on nationwide protests, as well as those supporting Russia, EU diplomats confirmed.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on social media platform X that the sanctions specifically target members of Iran’s government, judiciary, police, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), along with entities responsible for internet censorship.
IRGC Added to EU Terrorist List
The EU’s foreign ministers are also expected to formally designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization, placing the powerful guards in the same category as Islamic State and al Qaeda. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized that “If you act as a terrorist, you should also be treated as a terrorist.”
Founded after Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, the IRGC wields significant influence over Iran’s armed forces, economy, and strategic programs, including ballistic missiles and nuclear development.
Shift in European Policy
The decision marks a symbolic shift in Europe’s approach to Iran, with France and Italy—previously cautious about labeling the IRGC—giving their support following the recent deadly suppression of protests that reportedly killed thousands.
Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel stressed the importance of sending a strong message that the “bloodshed and brutality used against protesters cannot be tolerated.”
While some EU capitals worried the move could disrupt diplomatic ties or endanger European citizens in Iran, Kallas assured reporters that diplomatic channels are expected to remain open even after the IRGC’s designation.
