Tehran: In a dramatic escalation of rhetoric, the Iranian Parliament has declared the military forces of European Union (EU) countries as “terrorist groups”, in a direct response to the EU’s designation of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.
The move comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and Western countries over security, sanctions, and regional influence. According to international news agencies, the parliamentary declaration signals Tehran’s strong objection to the European Union’s decision to label the IRGC as a terrorist entity.
During the parliamentary session, lawmakers wore green uniforms of the IRGC to show solidarity with the corps. Footage broadcast on Iran’s state television captured members chanting slogans such as “Death to America,” “Death to Israel,” and “Shame on Europe.” The display underscored Iran’s condemnation of the EU’s move and its alignment with the IRGC.
Speaking during the session, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf called the EU’s designation an “irresponsible action” and said that, under Article 7 of the relevant law, the armed forces of European countries would now be considered terrorist groups in retaliation. The law, originally passed in 2019 after the United States declared the IRGC a terrorist organization, allows Iran to impose reciprocal measures against countries or entities taking similar actions against Iranian forces.
Qalibaf further stated that Iran’s Parliamentary National Security Committee would consider measures against the military attachés of European countries, including possible expulsion from Iran, and that the Foreign Ministry would be contacted to implement any decisions.
While the parliamentary declaration is largely symbolic at this stage, it reflects a sharpening of Iran’s political stance against Western powers, particularly in response to what it perceives as provocative actions targeting its military and regional influence. Analysts suggest that such declarations may complicate diplomatic engagement, increase tensions in international forums, and have potential implications for security cooperation and negotiations.
The session was held on the occasion of the 47th anniversary of the return of Ayatollah Khomeini from exile, a date that Iran marks annually with national and political significance. Lawmakers used the symbolic day to highlight national sovereignty, military pride, and opposition to foreign interference in Iranian affairs.
The Iranian government has not yet detailed the immediate practical implications of the parliamentary resolution. However, observers note that reciprocal sanctions or restrictions against EU military personnel could include visa limitations, restrictions on diplomatic privileges, or limitations on military cooperation programs in Iran.
The EU’s decision to label the IRGC as a terrorist organization earlier this year intensified already strained relations, coming amid sanctions, disputes over nuclear agreements, and tensions in the Persian Gulf. Iran’s parliamentary declaration underscores Tehran’s policy of firm retaliation against what it perceives as external threats to its security and institutions.
International analysts warn that the escalation could further strain Iran-Europe relations, affecting negotiations on nuclear programs, regional security initiatives, and humanitarian engagement. While the parliamentary resolution itself may not immediately change military deployments, it signals heightened vigilance and potential retaliatory actions against European forces or personnel operating in the region.
Observers also noted that the use of strong rhetoric and symbolic gestures in parliament reflects Iran’s domestic messaging strategy, aimed at consolidating nationalistic support and portraying a united front against foreign adversaries. The public display of solidarity with the IRGC indicates the deep institutional integration of the corps within Iran’s political and military framework.
In conclusion, the Iranian Parliament’s decision to declare European military forces as terrorist groups marks a significant escalation in Iran’s confrontation with the EU. While largely symbolic at this stage, it demonstrates Tehran’s willingness to employ legal, political, and rhetorical measures to retaliate against Western decisions affecting its security forces. The move could have diplomatic repercussions and complicate regional and international relations, highlighting the ongoing tensions between Iran and Western powers in matters of security, sovereignty, and geopolitical influence.
