Kallas highlighted that the anticipated decision delivers a clear signal that suppressing people incurs a cost, resulting in sanctions. This was noted in the context of the European Union’s increasing pressure on Tehran, which may include listing the Revolutionary Guard as a terror group. This potential designation adds to the planned sanctions against individuals and entities involved in the repression of protests or Iran’s support for Moscow in the conflict with Ukraine.
The move to label the Revolutionary Guard, a significant branch of Iran’s military with tens of thousands of members, indicates a notable change in the positions of European nations. Countries like France and Italy, which previously opposed the measure, would need to support it to achieve unanimous backing.
France removed its opposition on Wednesday, with Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot expressing on Thursday the necessity of European sanctions to ensure the sacrifice of the Iranians did not go unnoticed. Similarly, Italy altered its stance, and Spain also voiced support for the designation, according to a statement from the Spanish foreign ministry.
Prior to the foreign ministers’ meeting, Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel remarked on how recent footage of Tehran’s harsh crackdown crossed a significant line for EU countries. Although the exact number of casualties in the crackdown is hard to verify due to an internet shutdown, estimates suggest at least 6,000 were killed, with potential for higher numbers.
In 2019, the U.S. labeled the Revolutionary Guard a foreign terrorist organization and has consistently urged the EU to do the same. U.S. President Donald Trump warned on Wednesday about the dwindling time for the regime, noting a “massive Armada” moving towards Iran with decisive force and determination.
Contributions to reporting were made by Gabriel Gavin, Zoya Sheftalovich, and Tim Ross.
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