The European Union is preparing to sanction Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard over its brutal crackdown on nationwide protests, EU officials indicated Thursday. The move follows the U.S. in targeting the Guard and comes amid heightened fears of a potential military strike by former President Donald Trump against Tehran.

Protests in Iran have claimed at least 6,373 lives, according to activists, with tens of thousands more arrested. Demonstrations initially sparked by economic hardships have evolved into a broad challenge to theocratic rule, prompting an aggressive response from the Revolutionary Guard and its volunteer Basij forces.

EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas said the sanctions are “likely” and would place the Guard on the same footing as groups like al-Qaida, Hamas, and ISIS. “If you act as a terrorist, you should also be treated as a terrorist,” she stated, highlighting Europe’s intent to hold Tehran accountable for human rights violations.

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The Revolutionary Guard, established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, has grown from a protective military force into a powerful institution with deep influence in Iran’s politics, economy, and security apparatus. It has been central to suppressing protests, with videos showing its forces firing on demonstrators despite a nationwide internet blackout.

Sanctioning the Guard is legally and politically complex, given mandatory military service in Iran and the integration of many young men into its ranks. Nevertheless, EU nations, including France, are signaling strong support, emphasizing that there can be no impunity for crimes committed against peaceful protestors.

Iran’s economy is already strained under international sanctions, with the rial hitting record lows. The additional EU measures, if implemented, are expected to further isolate Tehran, intensifying both domestic pressure and the geopolitical standoff with Western powers.

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