In a statement released on Tuesday, the Foreign Ministry said that following anti-Iran decisions adopted by the Council of Ministers of the European Union on January 29, including the offensive labeling of the IRGC, ambassadors of EU member states were summoned by the deputy foreign minister for political affairs and relevant directors general at the Foreign Ministry, where Iran’s strong objection to the measures was formally conveyed.

During the summoning sessions, the Iranian government’s position strongly condemning the unjustified and irresponsible decisions of the EU Council of Ministers was outlined. It was emphasized that the EU’s action not only constitutes a clear violation of the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, particularly respect for national sovereignty and the prohibition of interference in the internal affairs of states, but is also regarded as a strategic mistake and an unforgivable insult to the Iranian nation.

The statement noted that the European Union must be held accountable for the destructive and unlawful policies and behavior stemming from inappropriate and hypocritical positions taken by some of its main members regarding regional developments. This included support for the genocide of Palestinians, endorsement of the Israeli regime’s crime of military aggression against Iran, and backing of terrorist actions against the Iranian nation between January 8 and 10, the statement added.

Referring to the mission and performance of the IRGC as a defender of Iran’s national security and the most effective force against Daesh (ISIL or ISIS) terrorism, the Foreign Ministry stressed that the EU’s illegal decision sets a dangerous precedent in international relations and strikes at the principle of the rule of law.

It warned that such actions weaken international peace and security and disrupt cooperation in counterterrorism efforts, adding that the consequences of the decision will rest with European policymakers.

According to the statement, the ambassadors of EU member states said they would promptly convey Iran’s positions to the relevant authorities in their respective countries.