Iran has declared the naval and air forces of European Union (EU) member countries as โterrorist organisationsโ, in response to the EUโs 2019 decision to designate Iranโs Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist group. The Iranian Foreign Ministry, in an official statement, said the EUโs action against the IRGC violated the United Nations Charter and basic principles of international law.
Legal basis for retaliation
According to the statement, Iran cited Article 7 of its reciprocal action law in taking this step. The ministry emphasized that any country following or supporting the U.S. or EUโs decision to label the IRGC as a terrorist organization would face reciprocal measures from Iran.
The announcement frames the move as a direct response to what Tehran views as an unjust categorization of the IRGC alongside extremist groups like ISIS and Al Qaeda.
Importance of IRGC in Iran
Formed after Iranโs 1979 Islamic Revolution, the IRGC is a powerful military and economic force in the country.ย It oversees Iranโs ballistic missile programs and plays a key role in the nationโs nuclear program.ย The IRGC also exerts significant influence over Iranโs armed forces and economy, making it central to the countryโs security and strategic planning.
Meanwhile, the United States, Israel, and their allies continue to pressure Iran to halt its uranium enrichment activities.ย These countries have expressed concerns over Iranโs potential efforts to develop nuclear weapons. US President Donald Trump had warned Iran to reach an agreement with the US regarding the nuclear deal within 10โ15 days, stating that failure to do so would lead to serious consequences.
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