The European Union is moving closer to imposing new sanctions on Iran, with a significant focus on designating the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. This potential move comes in response to Iran’s violent crackdown on recent protests, which has led to a substantial loss of civilian life and drawn international condemnation.
Italy’s Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, announced his intention to propose the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization at an upcoming EU foreign ministers’ meeting. This marks a significant shift for Rome, which had previously been hesitant. Tajani cited the “sudden losses among the civilian population during the protests” as a demand for a clear response.
In response to Italy’s stance, Iran summoned Italy’s ambassador, Paolo Amadei, condemning Tajani’s remarks as “irresponsible” and warning of “destructive consequences” if the EU moves forward with the designation. Tehran views the IRGC as an official component of its internal security apparatus.
The IRGC is accused of orchestrating Iran’s violent repression of protests, supplying weapons to Russia, and maintaining close ties with groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthi rebels. The United States, Canada, and Australia have already designated the IRGC as a terrorist organization.
Reports on the death toll from the protests vary significantly. Some sources indicate at least 6,000 protesters have been killed, while others cite figures as high as 30,000 deaths. Official Iranian figures state at least 3,117 people were killed.
While a large majority of the EU’s 27 foreign ministers are reportedly ready to back the proposal for sanctions and the IRGC designation, unanimity is required for the latter. France has emerged as a primary obstacle. French officials argue that designating the IRGC could carry significant risks to diplomatic channels and that many IRGC members are already subject to existing EU sanctions for various offenses, including human rights abuses and support for Russia’s war in Ukraine.
France also points to the delicate situation surrounding two French nationals recently released after years of imprisonment in Iran, suggesting that maintaining open diplomatic channels is crucial for safeguarding European interests and citizens detained in Iran.
Legal constraints also complicate the process, as an entity can only be added to the EU terror list following a prior decision by a competent authority in an EU member state or a third country. Hopes for overcoming this hurdle were raised by a German court ruling in March 2024 that linked an Iranian state agency to an attack on a synagogue, potentially providing grounds for future action.
Despite these challenges, the EU is expected to discuss a new round of sanctions against Iran at the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, aiming to exert pressure on Tehran’s policies and behavior.