The European Union on Thursday formally designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation, marking a significant hardening of Europe’s stance toward Tehran and placing the powerful military body in the same category as groups such as Islamic State and al Qaeda.

EU foreign ministers agreed on the move amid growing concern over Iran’s internal repression and regional activities. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the decision sent a clear political signal, writing on X that repression “cannot go unanswered” and that regimes responsible for killing their own citizens ultimately undermine themselves. The designation follows reports of a violent crackdown on nationwide anti-regime protests earlier this month that allegedly left thousands dead.

Formed after Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution to protect the country’s clerical system, the IRGC wields vast influence across Iran’s political, economic, and military spheres. It oversees Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear programmes and has long been accused by Western and Middle Eastern governments of backing proxy groups and destabilising the region.

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Israel welcomed the decision, calling it the culmination of years of diplomatic pressure. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar described the designation as “historic”, while Israeli officials said it would simplify legal action against IRGC members in Europe by allowing authorities to act based on affiliation alone, rather than proving involvement in specific terror plots. The move is also expected to ease asset freezes and deepen cooperation among European law-enforcement agencies.

Iran reacted sharply, condemning the EU’s decision as provocative and dangerous. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called it a “major strategic mistake” that would fuel conflict, accusing Europe of escalating tensions at a time when some countries are trying to prevent a wider regional war. He also linked the move to broader disputes over Iran’s nuclear programme and the potential return of UN sanctions.

Despite the tougher stance, EU officials stressed that diplomatic channels with Tehran would remain open. Alongside the IRGC designation, the bloc imposed fresh sanctions on several Iranian individuals and entities over alleged human rights violations and extended restrictions related to Iran’s drone and missile programmes, signalling a dual-track approach of pressure and continued engagement.

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