In a statement, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran described the EU’s move as “irrational, irresponsible and hateful” and said it reflected “unquestioning obedience to the hegemonic and inhumane policies of the United States and the Zionist regime.”
The statement added that the decision demonstrates “the depth of hostility and resentment of the leaders of this group towards the noble nation of Iran, the armed forces, and the security and independence of the powerful country of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
The EU designated the IRGC as a terrorist organization in response to Iran’s actions against foreign-backed rioters who caused widespread violence in late December, following calls from a monarchist and public incitement of US and Israeli leaders in late December.
Foreign-backed armed rioters and terrorists hijacked peaceful protests over economic grievances on January 8 and 9, resulting in murder, arson targeting mosques, clinics, ambulances, commuter buses, and damage to public and private property.
The statement said US and Israeli spy agencies were directly involved, providing funding, training, and media support to the rioters and armed groups on the streets.
Iran called the EU designation “a baseless and irrational decision made under pressure from the delusional US President Donald Trump and the terrorist and child-killing Israeli regime,” describing it as a violation of international law, the UN Charter, and the principle of national sovereignty.
The General Staff emphasized that the IRGC has long been a legitimate and powerful institution, defending Iran against US state terrorism and the “dangerous” Israeli regime.
It noted the IRGC’s role in supporting nations affected by organized terrorist groups backed by the United States, Israel, and some European countries, highlighting that thousands of IRGC members have been killed or wounded in these efforts.
The statement questioned how the EU could “with complete openness” accuse an anti-terrorism institution to appease Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whom it said foster terrorism.
It added that the accusation aims to support, expand, and legitimize terrorism regionally and globally.
Highlighting the IRGC’s efforts against groups such as Daesh (ISIS or ISIL) and the MKO terrorist organozation, which were supported by US and European leaders, the statement said these actions demonstrate the IRGC’s role in maintaining regional peace and security.
The General Staff concluded by reaffirming Iran’s determination to confront terrorist groups and warned that European policymakers would bear direct responsibility for the “dangerous consequences” of their decision.