Tehran considers retaliation following EU’s "hostile" sanctions

The European Union’s decision to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization has been framed by Tehran as a hostile political move, prompting Iranian authorities to consider reciprocal measures aimed at safeguarding national authority and regional security.

Tehran is reviewing four potential proposals in response to the EU’s sanctions, which it views as politically motivated and lacking legal basis, Mehr News Agency reports.

“The recent decision of the European Union to place the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on the sanctions list is a completely political action lacking any legal basis,” Iranian sources stated. “This is more than a legal matter and amounts to a hostile message against the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

Iranian officials argue that the EU’s action disregards established principles of international engagement and presents a one-sided view of Iran’s contributions to regional stability and the fight against terrorism. They highlight the IRGC’s role in countering groups such as ISIL in Iraq and Syria through paramilitary and advisory operations, often at heavy human and financial costs.

“Over the past few years, the IRGC, through paramilitary and advisory operations against ISIL in Iraq and Syria, has dismantled terrorist networks and blocked ISIL’s path toward Europe’s borders,” the sources said. “Without the military and advisory actions of the IRGC, vast areas of the Middle East would have fallen under ISIL control, and the direct threat to European security would have increased. Europe’s decision to sanction the IRGC overlooks these security contributions and contradicts the EU’s own interests.”

In response, Iran may adopt reciprocal and deterrent measures that, while preserving national authority, send a clear signal to Europe:

Assigning protection of European diplomatic missions to the IRGC: This symbolic yet practical measure would demonstrate that the institution targeted by sanctions continues to play a central role in safeguarding national and foreign security, highlighting Europe’s contradictory stance while maintaining Iran’s international commitments.

Enhanced inspection of commercial vessels bound for Europe: Iranian naval forces could place European commercial vessels under heightened monitoring, within the framework of international law. This action would underscore the practical costs of the EU’s decision and signal Iran’s capability in protecting its economic and security interests.

Reviewing Europe’s military-diplomatic presence in Tehran: Tehran could respond with reciprocal measures, including the collective expulsion of European military attachés, ensuring that hostile unilateral actions carry consequences.

Inspection of European diplomats at airports: Iran may implement reciprocal procedures for European diplomats passing through its airports, enforcing the same security protocols as for ordinary citizens. Such measures would underscore mutual respect for international law while reinforcing Iran’s negotiating position.

Iranian authorities emphasized that any response should combine symbolic, practical, and deterrent elements. “The European Union must realize that sanctioning a key defensive institution not only does not undermine Iran’s national security but also threatens Europe’s own real interests,” they noted.

By  Vafa Guliyeva