EU moves toward terror designation of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards

Thursday 29 January 2026 - 08:00

By: Sahili Aya

EU moves toward terror designation of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards

The European Union is preparing to add Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to its list of terrorist organizations, following a shift in position by France that clears the way for a political agreement among member states.

EU foreign ministers are expected to discuss the move during a meeting in Brussels, alongside a new package of sanctions responding to Iran’s continued repression of nationwide protests. The proposed designation would align the EU more closely with the United States, which has already classified the IRGC as a terrorist group.

France had previously expressed reservations, warning that such a decision could further damage diplomatic channels with Tehran. However, Paris announced it would now back the measure, signaling a tougher European stance toward Iranian authorities.

The IRGC is a powerful military and political force in Iran, with influence extending across the economy and regional security operations. Human rights groups and several European governments accuse it of playing a central role in the violent suppression of demonstrations and other abuses.

If approved, the designation would allow the EU to freeze assets linked to the IRGC and ban any form of financial or logistical support. It would also mark a significant escalation in EU-Iran relations at a time of heightened regional tensions.