Full Breakdown
Iran Declares EU Militaries as Terrorist Groups in Retaliation
2/2/2026, 11:41:14 AM
Escalation of Tensions Following EU Designation of IRGC
In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions, Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf announced on February 1, 2026, that the Islamic Republic now considers the armed forces of European Union (EU) countries to be "terrorist groups." This declaration follows the EU's recent decision to designate Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, a move prompted by the IRGC's violent crackdown on nationwide protests in Iran. The protests, which began in late December 2022, have reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths, with varying estimates of casualties reported by different organizations.
Qalibaf's announcement referenced Article 7 of Iran's 2019 law on countermeasures against foreign designations of the IRGC, allowing for reciprocal actions against nations that label the IRGC as a terrorist entity. During the parliamentary session, lawmakers donned IRGC uniforms and chanted anti-American and anti-Israel slogans, emphasizing their solidarity with the military force. Qalibaf criticized the EU's actions, claiming they were made to appease the United States and detrimental to European interests.
Background of the IRGC and EU Relations
The IRGC, established after the 1979 Iranian Revolution, plays a crucial role in Iran's military and political landscape, directly answering to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The EU's designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization marks a notable shift in its approach to Iran, reflecting longstanding concerns over human rights violations and the IRGC's involvement in regional conflicts. The EU's decision was influenced by reports of extreme brutality against protesters, including the death of Kurdish woman Jina Mahsa Amini, which sparked widespread unrest.
Official Statements and Responses
In his remarks, Qalibaf stated, “By seeking to strike at the (Guard), which itself has been the greatest barrier to the spread of terrorism to Europe, Europeans have in fact shot themselves in the foot.” He further described the EU's designation as “irresponsible” and aligned with U.S. interests. Iranian officials have indicated that the designation could lead to the expulsion of EU military attaches from Iran, although the practical implications of this declaration remain unclear.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the EU's designation argue that it may exacerbate tensions and hinder diplomatic efforts. Some analysts view Iran's retaliatory declaration as largely symbolic, given the existing sanctions and restrictions already imposed on the IRGC. However, the rhetoric surrounding this issue raises concerns about potential military and diplomatic repercussions in the region.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
The reported death toll from the protests varies significantly, with the Iranian government claiming 3,117 deaths, while human rights organizations estimate as many as 30,000 casualties. This discrepancy highlights the challenges in obtaining accurate information amid state-imposed internet restrictions and ongoing unrest.
What's Next
As tensions continue to rise, observers are closely monitoring Iran's next steps, particularly regarding military drills planned in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for global oil trade. The international community faces a critical juncture, with potential diplomatic responses from the EU and the implications of Iran's declaration on future relations between Tehran and Western nations.
