Europe finally confronts Iran’s terrorist arm by designating the Revolutionary Guard Corps as terrorists, aligning with President Trump’s strong stance against global threats to freedom.
Story Highlights
- EU Foreign Affairs Council set to unanimously approve IRGC terrorist designation on January 29, 2026, after France, Italy, and Spain reversed opposition.
- Move triggered by Iran’s brutal crackdown on peaceful protesters, validating calls for accountability on human rights abuses.
- The designation aligns the EU with the U.S., Canada, and Australia, strengthening the unified Western front against the IRGC’s proxy terror network including Hamas and Hezbollah.
- IRGC membership becomes a criminal offense in the EU, freezing assets and dismantling networks—a victory for global security.
EU’s Historic Shift on Iran Terror
The European Union Foreign Affairs Council convened in Brussels on January 29, 2026, to vote on designating Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. All 27 member states needed unanimous approval. France reversed its opposition on January 28, with Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot declaring the regime’s repression of peaceful uprisings unacceptable. Italy announced support on January 27, followed by Spain. Romania remained the sole holdout without a public position as of late January 28. This breakthrough positions the IRGC alongside al-Qaeda and Hamas on the EU list.
IRGC’s Record of Repression and Global Terror
The IRGC has anchored Iran’s repression since the 1979 Revolution, functioning as an extremist force rather than a conventional military. It directs proxy militias like Hezbollah, Houthis, Hamas, and Iraqi Shia groups, fueling regional instability. Recent violent crackdowns on Iranian protesters, including unfair trials and death penalties, violated international human rights law. Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel noted footage from Tehran crossed a major threshold for Europe. The European Parliament banned Iranian diplomats from its premises in response. President Trump’s prior U.S. designation set the precedent allies now follow.
Key Players Driving the Decision
EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas led efforts to secure consensus. Barrot highlighted Iranian protesters’ courage against blind violence. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani ended opposition, clearing a path forward. Expert Matthew Levitt of the Washington Institute stressed the designation criminalizes IRGC membership in Europe. The European Parliament repeatedly urged this step through resolutions. With major holdouts like France, Italy, Spain, and Luxembourg now supportive, unanimous approval appeared likely, echoing America’s firm anti-terror policy under President Trump.
Immediate and Long-Term Impacts
Short-term effects include asset freezes, travel bans, and criminal penalties for IRGC affiliates in EU jurisdiction, empowering law enforcement to disrupt networks. Long-term, alignment with the U.S., Canada, and Australia bolsters coordinated action against the IRGC’s global operations. Iranian protesters gain international backing, while the regime faces isolation. European firms must review IRGC ties, and banks enhance due diligence. Kallas noted diplomacy remains open post-designation, balancing firmness with engagement. This step counters the terror axis, protecting Western security interests.
Kallas Says EU Expected to Put #Iran Guards on 'Terrorist List'https://t.co/TXDeF5l0KJ
— Asharq Al-Awsat English (@aawsat_eng) January 29, 2026
Victory for Conservative Principles
President Trump’s designation of the IRGC years ago pressured Europe to act, proving strong leadership yields results against appeasement. This EU move rejects globalist hesitancy, prioritizing human rights and counter-terrorism. It undermines state-sponsored violence that threatens allies and freedoms everywhere. Americans weary of weak policies abroad see vindication: resolute action deters aggressors. As Iran represses its people, the West unites, safeguarding stability without compromising sovereignty.
Sources:
Le Monde: EU Set to Add Iran’s Revolutionary Guard to Its Terrorist Organizations List
FDD Action: The Critical Choice That Europe Faces on the IRGC
European Parliament: Resolution on IRGC Designation
Iran International: Coverage of EU IRGC Designation Developments
