Iran announced on Sunday that it has designated European armies as terrorist organizations in response to the European Union’s decision to place Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on its terrorism blacklist.
The move marks a sharp escalation in tensions between Tehran and European capitals, following growing political and diplomatic pressure within the EU over Iran’s regional activities and domestic policies.
Iranian officials described the EU’s designation of the IRGC as “hostile” and “unjustified,” warning that it would have serious consequences for relations between Iran and Europe. In retaliation, Tehran said it would treat European military forces as terrorist entities under its laws.
Commenting on the issue, Maher Nicola, Director of the European Center for Studies, said the European position on Iran’s Revolutionary Guard reflects a clear contradiction. He noted that several European countries ignored for years the IRGC’s alleged involvement in terrorist activities on European soil, including acts of violence and bombings that took place in Paris during the 1980s and 1990s.
In a televised interview, Nicola argued that Europe’s recent move to classify the IRGC came primarily under U.S. pressure, despite continued European criticism of Washington’s policies, which they often describe as violent and authoritarian.
He added that this approach highlights the absence of a unified European strategic vision, stressing that Europe tends to handle major geopolitical issues through short-term reactions rather than long-term strategic planning.
The European Union has justified its decision by citing the IRGC’s role in destabilizing activities in the Middle East and actions deemed threatening to international security. However, the designation has sparked debate within Europe over its political and security implications.
Follow the latest news on Google News
