France appears to have walked back its opposition to the European Union's plan to designate Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. The decision comes after Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated that France will support the designation, citing the "unbearable repression" of Iranian protesters and the need for accountability.
Barrot's statement was made in response to the ongoing crackdown on antigovernment protests across Iran, which has resulted in widespread violence and an estimated 6,221 deaths. The French government had previously been hesitant to support the designation, fearing it could lead to a complete break in ties with Iran and negatively impact diplomatic relations.
However, Barrot's reversal suggests that France is shifting its stance in response to the international community's growing criticism of the Iranian government's actions. The EU foreign ministers are set to meet in Brussels on Thursday, where they will likely approve the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization.
The move has been spearheaded by Italy, and it comes amid global pressure on Iran to address human rights concerns. Other countries, such as Canada and Australia, have already designated the IRGC as a terrorist organization.
Iran's government has dismissed the EU's plans, warning of "destructive consequences" if they go ahead. The country has also summoned the Italian ambassador over Rome's leadership in the move.
Barrot's statement was made in response to the ongoing crackdown on antigovernment protests across Iran, which has resulted in widespread violence and an estimated 6,221 deaths. The French government had previously been hesitant to support the designation, fearing it could lead to a complete break in ties with Iran and negatively impact diplomatic relations.
However, Barrot's reversal suggests that France is shifting its stance in response to the international community's growing criticism of the Iranian government's actions. The EU foreign ministers are set to meet in Brussels on Thursday, where they will likely approve the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization.
The move has been spearheaded by Italy, and it comes amid global pressure on Iran to address human rights concerns. Other countries, such as Canada and Australia, have already designated the IRGC as a terrorist organization.
Iran's government has dismissed the EU's plans, warning of "destructive consequences" if they go ahead. The country has also summoned the Italian ambassador over Rome's leadership in the move.