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European Parliament Members Urge Designation of IRGC as Terrorist Group Amid Security Concerns

Mahmoud Hakamian

Iran EU Parliament min

During a debate at the European Parliament on October 22, members highlighted the urgent need to address the Iranian regime’s destabilizing activities in Europe and called for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to be designated as a terrorist organization. The session, which took place in Strasbourg, centered on the increasing security threats posed by Iran’s regime, particularly through its proxies and intelligence networks, which many MEPs said are responsible for recent attacks and assassination attempts on European soil. 

MEP Javier Zarzalejos condemned the Iranian regime, stating, “Can anyone doubt that the Iranian regime sponsors, promotes, and finances terrorism in Europe?” He cited the assassination attempt on former European Parliament VP Alejo Vidal-Quadras, noting it was orchestrated by “hitmen hired by Iran.” Zarzalejos also highlighted Iran’s internal repression, including “executions, violence against women, and the suppression of criticism,” accusing the West of sending “messages of impunity to the Ayatollahs’ regime.” He described Iran as “Russia’s partner and ally in its aggression against Ukraine,” and noted its influence over “Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis,” urging the EU to take a firmer stance against Tehran. 

Antonio López-Istúriz White spoke emphatically about the increasing threat posed by the Iranian regime, highlighting the attempted assassination of former European Parliament Vice President Alejo Vidal-Quadras in Madrid. He stated, “A year ago, I denounced this, and once again, I need to remind you of the assassination attempt against our colleague Alejo Vidal-Quadras, who was shot in broad daylight in the streets of Madrid.” López-Istúriz White warned that the Iranian regime’s actions extend beyond this incident, noting its strategic alliances: “The President of Iran is arriving in Russia for the BRICS summit. He will shake hands with Mr. Putin, and they will discuss further steps in their comprehensive strategic partnership.” He emphasized that these alliances threaten democracy, freedom, and stability in Europe, urging for stronger actions against the regime. 

Several speakers directly linked the IRGC to state-sponsored terrorism in Europe. Bert-Jan Ruissen emphasized the regime’s role in a targeted attack last year on Alejo Vidal-Quadras, a former vice president of the European Parliament, who was shot in Madrid. “Who is behind these attacks? All signs point to Tehran,” Reusen stated, urging Europe to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization. 

Petras Austrevicius echoed this sentiment, noting that Europe cannot remain passive while Tehran expands its networks. “We must take concrete action at the EU level to stop the Iranian regime’s terrorism at sea and on land,” he said, stressing the importance of designating the IRGC as a terrorist entity. 

MEP Alice Teodorescu described the IRGC as an “octopus” with tentacles that conduct asymmetric proxy wars against Europe in general and Sweden in particular. She highlighted how criminal gangs, operating under the direction of Iranian intelligence, have been responsible for attacks on businesses and other targets. “We need to act before Iran extends its nuclear capabilities,” Teodorescu asserted, calling for a decisive response from the EU. 

In line with this, Francisco Assis pointed out that Iran’s regime has become a key exporter of terrorism. “Iran is a society held hostage by religious fundamentalists who are now exporting terror beyond the Middle East to Europe,” Assis stated. He urged the European Union to follow the examples set by the United States and Canada, both of which have already listed the IRGC as a terrorist organization. 

Throughout the debate, MEPs stressed the need for tougher sanctions. Many accused the EU of sending mixed signals by engaging diplomatically with Tehran while failing to curb its malign activities.  

During the debate at the European Parliament, MEP Ana Catarina condemned the Iranian regime for its systematic human rights abuses, particularly the repression of women and ethnic and religious minorities. She highlighted the regime’s use of cruel and inhumane punishments, including executions, as a means to suppress dissent and maintain control. Catarina emphasized that such actions demonstrate the regime’s blatant disregard for international law. She urged the EU to take decisive action against the regime, including listing the IRGC as a terrorist organization, to address the ongoing domestic and international threats posed by Tehran. 

Speakers also pointed to the IRGC’s involvement in the Middle East as a core reason for their stance. “Iran’s regime, through the IRGC, supports groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and other militant factions, extending its influence and violence from Syria to Gaza,” said Kristoffer Storm. “If we do not act now, this menace will grow beyond control,” he warned, calling for immediate action to limit the IRGC’s operational scope. 

The European Parliament’s call for decisive action underscores a growing sense of urgency among EU officials to confront the Iranian regime’s destabilizing tactics. The call to list the IRGC as a terrorist organization reflects a push to not only counter the regime’s state-sponsored terrorism but also to safeguard European security and uphold international law. As the situation develops, the European Union’s next steps could redefine its approach to dealing with Iran and its proxies. 

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