France Finally Joins EU in Labeling Iran's Guards as Terrorists

France has had a change of heart. After long hesitation, it now supports adding Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to the EU's terrorism list. This shift comes as EU foreign ministers meet to discuss new sanctions against Iran for its harsh crackdown on protests. The IRGC, created after Iran's 1979 revolution, holds immense power in Iran. It controls large parts of the economy, the armed forces, and manages Iran's missile and nuclear programs. The EU has been divided on this issue. Some countries, like France, have been cautious. They feared this move could harm ties with Iran and complicate efforts to free Europeans held in Iranian prisons.France's concern grew after two of its citizens were released from prison last year but are still stuck at the Iranian embassy in Tehran. The protests in Iran, which started in December, have led to a brutal crackdown. This has drawn strong criticism from around the world. Supporters of the move argue that the IRGC's actions, both in Iran and abroad, are terrorist activities. They believe the EU must send a clear message. With France, Italy, and Germany now on board, the decision is likely to pass.