Iran’s judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei issued a stark warning to European nations on Friday, declaring that the European Union would face significant repercussions for its decision to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. The strongly worded statement, broadcast through Iranian state television, characterized the EU’s action as a “hostile measure” that would not remain unanswered.
Ejei asserted that European countries would ultimately “suffer the consequences of their foolish act,” though he provided no specific details regarding the nature or timing of Iran’s planned response. The declaration represents the first official Iranian reaction to the EU’s landmark decision, which marks a significant escalation in tensions between Iran and Western powers.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, established following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, serves as a critical military, political, and economic force within Iran’s power structure. The organization maintains substantial influence over Iran’s security apparatus and controls strategic economic sectors through its extensive network of affiliated enterprises.
This development occurs against a backdrop of deteriorating relations between Iran and European nations, particularly concerning Iran’s nuclear program, regional activities, and military cooperation with Russia. The EU’s designation follows years of diplomatic pressure and represents one of the most severe international actions taken against Iran’s military establishment.
Analysts suggest that Iran’s response could manifest through various channels, including potential escalations in regional proxy conflicts, adjustments to nuclear negotiation stances, or economic countermeasures targeting European interests. The situation underscores the continuing deterioration of EU-Iran relations and raises concerns about further destabilization in an already volatile region.