On January 29, 2025, the French Parliament approved a resolution condemning Iran’s human rights abuses and urging the EU to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization. This follows the US’s earlier designation of the IRGC as an FTO in 2019. The passage signifies a potential halt to the IRGC’s operations in Europe, presenting an opportunity to safeguard Iranian dissidents and Jewish communities.
On January 29, 2025, the French Parliament adopted a resolution condemning human rights violations in Iran, advocating for the European Union to classify Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Basij forces as terrorist entities. This resolution highlights Iran’s systematic human rights abuses, including the excessive application of the death penalty, state violence against women and children, and oppressive measures against women’s liberties and societal roles.
The IRGC plays a central role in preserving Iran’s theocratic regime, engaging in egregious human rights abuses domestically, and supporting illicit missile and nuclear programs. Furthermore, it backs organizations propagating anti-Israel and anti-American sentiments such as Hezbollah and Hamas. Notably, the United States designated the IRGC as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) in April 2019, marking a significant stance against a section of a foreign government.
The French resolution is significant as it creates momentum for the EU to consider a unified position on the IRGC’s classification. Should the EU designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization, it would result in the freezing of its assets and restrict its activities within the bloc, substantially impacting both the group and the Iranian regime as a whole.
Constance Le Grip, a French Member of Parliament and an alumna of AJC Project Interchange, introduced the resolution with supportive efforts from the AJC Paris branch. Le Grip is also intertwined with AJC’s Transatlantic Friends of Israel initiative, aiming to enhance transatlantic cooperation and security.
Ted Deutch, CEO of AJC, expressed enthusiasm regarding the resolution, terming it a vital step. He noted the need for robust actions against the IRGC, prioritizing the safety of not only Jewish communities but also emphasizing the group’s role as a central component of a widespread terror network.
Deutch accentuated the imperative of European leaders to act decisively, stating, “Now, it’s on the EU to follow through and officially designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization.” He outlined AJC’s commitment to pushing for measures that safeguard European Jews and counteract Iran’s destabilizing activities.
Looking forward, the AJC calls for the EU and other nations yet to take action to officially recognize the IRGC as a terrorist organization. The organization aims to continue pressing for appropriate measures against the threats posed by the IRGC and its affiliates, thereby safeguarding regional stability and global security.
In conclusion, France’s resolution to blacklist Iran’s IRGC initiates critical discussions within the European Union regarding the recognition of the IRGC as a terrorist organization. This step not only acknowledges the extensive human rights abuses perpetrated by the IRGC but also aims to mitigate its detrimental influence within Europe and globally. Engagement from European leaders is essential to implement these crucial resolutions to protect vulnerable communities and maintain regional stability.
Original Source: www.ajc.org
