Why the World Must Designate the IRGC as a Terrorist Organization

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has evolved into a multifaceted entity exerting significant influence over Iran’s military, political, economic, and foreign policy spheres. Beyond its national borders, the IRGC has been implicated in various activities that undermine international security, including sponsoring terrorism, suppressing dissent, and destabilizing regions through proxy warfare. Given its extensive involvement in such activities, there is a compelling case for the international community to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization.

1. The IRGC’s Role in Global Terrorism

The IRGC, particularly through its Quds Force, has been instrumental in orchestrating and supporting terrorist activities worldwide. It has provided financial, logistical, and military support to groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis, all of which are recognized as terrorist organizations by various countries. These alliances have facilitated attacks on civilian populations, contributed to regional instability, and challenged international peace efforts.

2. Suppression of Human Rights and Domestic Repression

Domestically, the IRGC has been a central force in suppressing political dissent and violating human rights. It has been involved in the arbitrary detention, torture, and execution of political prisoners, journalists, and activists. The Basij militia, under the IRGC’s command, has been notorious for its brutal crackdowns on peaceful protests, particularly those advocating for women’s rights and democratic reforms.

3. Destabilization Through Proxy Warfare

The IRGC’s strategy of engaging in proxy warfare has significantly contributed to the destabilization of the Middle East. By supporting non-state actors and militias in countries like Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon, the IRGC has exacerbated conflicts, undermined sovereign governments, and impeded peace processes. These actions have not only caused humanitarian crises but have also posed threats to global security. 

4. Economic Exploitation and Corruption

Beyond its military and political endeavors, the IRGC has entrenched itself in Iran’s economy, controlling vast sectors including construction, telecommunications, and energy. Through its economic arm, Khatam al-Anbiya, the IRGC has monopolized key industries, often sidelining private enterprises and fostering a culture of corruption. This economic dominance has been used to fund its military operations and suppress economic freedoms within Iran. 

5. International Legal Precedents and Designations

Several countries have already recognized the IRGC’s activities as terrorist in nature. The United States designated the IRGC as a Foreign Terrorist Organization in 2019, marking the first time a part of another government was labeled as such. Canada followed suit in 2024, citing the IRGC’s disregard for human rights and its role in destabilizing the international order. These designations have set legal precedents and have been instrumental in curbing the IRGC’s global operations. 

6. The Imperative for Global Designation

Designating the IRGC as a terrorist organization on a global scale would have several critical implications:

 • Legal Ramifications: It would enable countries to prosecute individuals and entities associated with the IRGC, freeze assets, and restrict financial transactions.

 • Diplomatic Pressure: Such a designation would send a strong message to the Iranian regime, signaling international condemnation of its actions and potentially compelling behavioral changes. 

 • Support for Victims: It would affirm solidarity with victims of the IRGC’s actions, both within Iran and globally, and support efforts to seek justice and reparations.

Conclusion

The IRGC’s extensive involvement in terrorism, human rights abuses, regional destabilization, and economic corruption underscores the necessity for its designation as a terrorist organization by the international community. Such a unified stance would not only hinder the IRGC’s operations but also reinforce global commitments to peace, security, and human rights. It is imperative that nations act collectively to hold the IRGC accountable and mitigate its detrimental impact on international affairs.