The European Union has officially designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced that the bloc’s foreign ministers had reached a consensus to include the IRGC on the EU’s list of terrorist groups.
Reacting strongly to the decision, Iran’s armed forces condemned the move, calling it “illogical, irresponsible, and driven by malicious intent.”
In an official statement, Iranian authorities said the EU’s action reflects “blind imitation of the hegemonic and inhumane policies of the United States and the Zionist regime.”
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is a key branch of Iran’s military, established after the 1979 Iranian Revolution.
It operates alongside the regular armed forces but reports directly to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The IRGC plays a central role in Iran’s national defense, external military operations, and regional influence. The force comprises approximately 190,000 active personnel, with total strength — including reserves — exceeding 600,000 members. It is also responsible for overseeing Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear programs and supports allied groups across the Middle East.
It is worth noting that the United States designated the IRGC as a foreign terrorist organization in 2019, marking the first time Washington applied such a label to a branch of another country’s military.
Iran’s Strong Response
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the move, calling it a “major strategic mistake” by Europe.
In a separate statement, Iran’s armed forces described the EU decision as irresponsible and driven by hostility.
The Iranian military further said the move was “illogical and clearly reflects blind obedience to the inhumane policies of the United States and Israel.”
