High Representative Kaja Kallas has assured the European Parliament that the EU is protecting its citizens against Iranian threats, pointing to the recent listing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation and new sanctions on human rights violators. In a written answer to a question by MEP Ioan-Rareş Bogdan (PPE), Kallas stated that the EU is aware of the threats but that they were never communicated through official channels.
The question, submitted on 5 February 2026, followed statements by Iran's Chief Justice warning EU citizens would 'bear the consequences' of the IRGC listing, and by the Iranian Parliament declaring EU armies 'terrorist organisations'. Kallas confirmed that the Council finalised the IRGC terrorist listing on 19 February 2026, and on 16 March 2026 adopted new restrictive measures against 16 individuals and three entities responsible for serious human rights violations, including IRGC commanders.
Concrete measures, not just rhetoric Kallas's answer provides concrete policy actions rather than vague commitments. The IRGC listing and the March sanctions package demonstrate the EU's willingness to use its full toolkit, including sanctions, to respond to Iranian hostility. The answer also clarifies that the regulation of NGOs suspected of advancing Iranian interests falls under Member State competence, not EU-level action.
Policy orientation and institutional follow-up The answer signals a firm, security-oriented EU approach towards Iran, with no sign of de-escalation. The High Representative's office is likely to continue monitoring Iranian statements and may propose further sanctions if threats persist. The European Parliament is expected to hold debates on EU-Iran relations in the coming months, potentially pushing for additional measures such as designating more entities or individuals.
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