France Reverses Stance, Backs EU Designation of Iran's IRGC as Terrorist Entity

PARIS/BRUSSELS – France has signaled a significant policy pivot, announcing its support for the European Union’s move to formally designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. The announcement, delivered by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, appears to directly tie the proposed designation to the Iranian authorities’ sustained and often violent repression of widespread anti-government protests.In a statement released Wednesday, Minister Barrot asserted that the “unbearable repression of the Iranian people’s peaceful uprising cannot go unanswered.” He confirmed that France would align with its European partners in Brussels to impose sanctions, stating, “France will support the designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on the European list of terrorist organisations.” This move necessitates unanimity among the 27 EU member states, though the initiative is reportedly being spearheaded by Italy and is expected to receive political approval during the forthcoming foreign ministers’ meeting.Historically, France, alongside other key EU members, had exercised caution regarding such a designation. Previous hesitations stemmed from fears that listing the IRGC—a powerful military apparatus answering directly to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei—could precipitate a complete rupture of diplomatic relations with Tehran. Such a breakdown was feared to jeopardize ongoing negotiations concerning European citizens detained within Iran.The IRGC holds substantial influence, overseeing Iran's missile and nuclear programs, and directing foreign operations across the Middle East. The shift in position by Paris comes as global criticism mounts over the severity of Tehran’s response to demonstrations sparked by soaring inflation and economic crisis. Human rights monitoring groups have reported thousands of casualties linked to the protests, figures disputed by the Iranian government.The United States designated the IRGC as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) in 2019, followed by Canada and Australia in subsequent years. Iran has issued stern warnings regarding “destructive consequences” should the EU proceed, having already summoned the Italian ambassador in protest of Rome’s leadership on the matter.Source: Based on reporting by Al Jazeera and associated international wire services.