Tehran: The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has firmly denounced the European Union’s decision to categorize the elite force on its terrorist lists, asserting that the move is in sync with the United States’ interventionist policies and lacks both legal and political validity.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the IRGC released a statement on Sunday labeling the EU’s action as both hostile and unlawful, arguing that it contradicts the principles and logic that govern international relations. The statement emphasized that such measures would not deter the IRGC’s missions but would instead bolster internal unity and national determination to protect Iran’s security and interests.

The IRGC expressed appreciation for the widespread public support and solidarity in Iran following the EU’s decision, viewing it as a testament to national unity and public recognition of the critical role played by national security institutions during pivotal historical periods. The statement accused the EU of aligning with the “interventionist policies of the United States,” while ignoring destabilizing actions by certain regional actors, notably the Israeli regime.

The IRGC argued that these actions would not foster regional peace and security but rather exacerbate confrontation and hinder constructive engagement. The statement also underscored the IRGC’s longstanding role in safeguarding Iran’s independence, security, and territorial integrity, as well as its participation in counterterrorism, development projects, disaster relief, and public services.

The IRGC questioned the rationale of European governments in labeling Iran’s defense efforts against terrorist groups, separatist organizations, and Daesh, as well as its actions during the eight-year imposed war, as “terrorism.” Furthermore, it criticized certain European countries for supporting terrorist groups and failing to condemn crimes committed in Gaza.