The European Union has officially designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation, marking a significant escalation in already strained relations between Tehran and Western powers. The decision was announced following a meeting of EU foreign ministers, with European leaders citing human rights abuses and regional destabilisation as key reasons behind the move.
Iran reacted sharply, condemning the designation as politically motivated and warning that European policymakers would bear responsibility for what it called the “dangerous consequences” of the decision. Iranian military officials reiterated their readiness to respond forcefully to any external attack, as tensions continue to rise alongside increased US military activity in the region.
The development has triggered wider geopolitical concerns, including fears of disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route. As diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes—particularly involving regional players such as Pakistan, Turkiye, and Russia—analysts warn that miscalculation on either side could push the situation toward a broader confrontation.