In a statement responding to the EU’s action, the IRGC described the designation as invalid, lacking legal and political legitimacy, and contrary to international norms. It said the EU’s move would not weaken the IRGC’s resolve but instead strengthen national unity and determination to protect Iran’s interests and security.
The IRGC also lashed out at the EU for aligning with US interventionist policies while ignoring the destabilizing role of regional actors, particularly the Israeli regime, warning that such steps hinder constructive engagement and regional cooperation.
Highlighting its decades-long service, the IRGC emphasized its role as a defensive shield for Iran, countering terrorist groups and separatist movements, and contributing to national reconstruction, disaster relief, and scientific and infrastructural development. The statement questioned the EU’s logic in labeling such defensive and constructive activities as “terrorism.”
The IRGC criticized European countries for providing safe haven and support to terrorist groups like the terrorist Mujahedin-e-Khalq Organization (MKO) and Daesh (ISIS or ISIL), while failing to condemn the Zionist regime’s attacks on Gaza, which have resulted in tens of thousands of civilian casualties and widespread destruction.