EU Hits Iran with Sanctions on 15 Officials and Eyes IRGC Terror Label

European Union foreign ministers approved sanctions against 15 Iranian officials, including leaders from the Revolutionary Guard, on Thursday in response to a violent crackdown on protests across Iran. The measures target those responsible for the deaths of thousands of protesters, with the EU also moving to list the entire Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist group.

Background

Protests broke out in Iran earlier this month after a series of events that angered many people. Demonstrations started picking up steam around January 8, when the government cut off internet access for the country's 85 million residents. Videos smuggled out via satellite links like Starlink showed security forces, including Revolutionary Guard members, firing on crowds and beating demonstrators.

The Revolutionary Guard, formed after Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution, acts as a parallel army to protect the government led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It grew powerful during the 1980s war with Iraq and later expanded into business. Its Basij volunteer force played a big role in putting down the protests, using direct force against unarmed crowds.

Iranian authorities say over 3,000 people died, mostly security forces or bystanders hit by rioters. But rights groups report much higher numbers. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency counted at least 6,373 deaths, including nearly 6,000 protesters, 113 children, and 53 other civilians. More than 42,000 arrests followed. Other reports, citing regime sources, put the toll over 36,000. The internet blackout and phone disruptions have made it hard to confirm exact figures.

This crackdown marks a sharp turn. Past protests saw restraint, but this time authorities aimed to wipe out resistance entirely. Executions continue, and thousands sit in prisons. The EU had sanctioned many Iranian figures before for earlier protests and for helping Russia's war in Ukraine. Now, with deaths in the thousands, pressure built for stronger action.

France and Italy had held back from labeling the full Guard a terror group. France worried about Europeans held in Iran and wanted to keep some diplomatic lines open. Italy shifted first after new reports on civilian deaths. France followed on Wednesday, clearing the path for Thursday's meeting in Brussels.

Key Details

The sanctions hit 15 officials with visa bans and asset freezes. They include top Revolutionary Guard commanders linked to the crackdown. Ministers also approved measures against 21 state entities and more officials, such as Iran's interior minister.

The big step is the push to add the Revolutionary Guard to the EU's terrorist list, alongside groups like Hamas, al-Qaeda, and ISIS. This came after EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said it was likely during the Brussels talks.

“If you act as a terrorist, you should also be treated as terrorists,” Kaja Kallas told reporters. “This will put them on the same footing with al-Qaeda, Hamas, Daesh.”

France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot backed the move, stressing no impunity for crimes.

“There can be no impunity for the crimes committed,” Barrot said on arrival in Brussels. “This decision is also an appeal by France to the Iranian authorities to release the prisoners thrown by thousands into the regime’s prisons, to end the executions that are perpetuating the most violent repression in Iran’s modern history.”

Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel said videos from Tehran crossed a major line for EU nations. Spain joined the push too. Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called for it after seeing civilian death tolls.

Sanction Challenges

Listing the Guard as terrorists brings hurdles. Many commanders already face EU sanctions for human rights abuses, nuclear work, and aiding Russia. Iranian men must serve up to two years in military service starting at 18, and some end up in the Guard regardless of their views. This could complicate enforcement.

The European Parliament urged stronger steps in a recent resolution. It called for barring Iranian diplomats from EU buildings, expelling relatives of Guard members studying or working in Europe, and matching US sanctions on repressors. Parliament's president already banned Iranian staff from its sites in Brussels, Strasbourg, and Luxembourg.

What This Means

These steps send a clear signal to Iran. The terrorist label for the Guard is mostly symbolic since key parts already face restrictions. But it ramps up pressure and matches actions by allies like the US. Diplomatic channels may stay open, as Kallas noted, to allow talks.

For Iranians, it highlights global outrage over the crackdown. Protesters faced live fire, beatings, and mass arrests. The regime's internet shutdown hid much of the violence, but leaked videos spread the word. Rights groups say the death toll could climb as more reports emerge.

EU nations hope this pushes Iran to free prisoners, stop executions, and ease repression. France urged ending the blackout to let people speak. Coordinated moves with partners aim to block sanction dodges worldwide.

Iran's Guard keeps strong ties to groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. It supplies weapons to Russia and fired missiles at Israel. Labeling it a terror group could limit its operations in Europe, though practical effects remain small.

Member states split before, with some opposing tougher measures. Now, a large majority backs this. The vote keeps repression in focus and supports those protesting for change. Iran's people face ongoing risks, but these EU actions add weight to their cause.