EU Slaps New Sanctions On Iran After Tehran's Crackdown On Protests

Last Updated:January 29, 2026, 17:24 IST

European Union approved new sanctions on Iran, targeting IRGC and entities linked to protests and Russia support, amid rising tensions and warnings from Germany and the US.

The EU ministers are expected to reach a political agreement to include Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on the bloc's list of terrorist organisations. (Image: AP File)

European Union foreign ministers on Thursday approved new sanctions on Iran, targeting individuals and entities linked to Tehran’s crackdown on protesters and its support for Russia.

According to Reuters, the ministers are expected to reach a political agreement to include Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on the bloc’s list of terrorist organisations, putting the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) in a category similar to that of Islamic State and al Qaeda and marking a symbolic shift in Europe’s approach to Iran’s leadership.

The IRGC, set up after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, has great influence in the country, controlling the economy and armed forces. It is also in charge of Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear programmes.

Also Read: ‘People Were Killed, But Numbers Are Incorrect’: Khamenei Aide On Iran Protests

Iran has witnessed widespread protests since late December last year, triggered by economic hardship and rising living costs. The unrest has also drawn international attention, with activists and rights groups alleging a deadly crackdown by Iranian authorities claims the government strongly denies.

Earlier this month, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Iran’s ruling clerical establishment is nearing the end of its rule, declaring that the ayatollahs’ regime is living out its “final days and weeks".

The German chancellor had also warned of tougher international measures, saying Germany and its partners are working on additional sanctions to increase pressure on Tehran. “To underscore this message, we are working on further EU sanctions," he added.

Also Read: Germany Says Iranian Regime’s Days Numbered As Trump Sends Armada: ‘Could Be A Matter Of Weeks’

The latest sanctions come amid tension between the US and Iran since the protests.

According to AFP, a US naval strike group arrived in Middle East waters on Monday with President Donald Trump warning it was “ready, willing and able" to hit Iran “if necessary".

In response, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Tehran’s forces have their “fingers on the trigger" and are ready to respond “immediately and forcefully" to any US military action, even as he signalled openness to negotiations on the country’s nuclear programme.

According to AFP, Iran’s army on Thursday added 1,000 drones to its combat regiments as its chief vowed a “crushing response" to any attack.

“In accordance with the threats we are facing, maintaining and enhancing strategic advantages for rapid combat and a crushing response to any invasion… is always on the army’s agenda," Iran’s army commander Amir Hatami said, cited by state television.

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