Why Identifying the IRGC as a Terrorist Organization Is Crucial

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) holds a unique and pivotal role within the structure of Iran’s power dynamics, combining military, economic, and ideological influence. Recognizing the IRGC as a terrorist organization is not just a political statement—it is a critical step in addressing global security threats, combating human rights abuses, and supporting those who suffer under the IRGC’s oppressive and destabilizing actions.

At IRGC Act, our campaign is driven by a commitment to shine a spotlight on the dangers posed by the IRGC and to advocate for meaningful actions that hold this entity accountable. Below, we delve into the reasons why it is essential to classify the IRGC as a terrorist organization and explain the goals behind our campaign.

1. The IRGC’s Role in Regional and Global Destabilization

The IRGC’s activities extend far beyond Iran’s borders, fostering instability across the Middle East and beyond. Through its Quds Force—a specialized unit dedicated to unconventional warfare and intelligence operations—the IRGC funds, arms, and trains proxy groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, and various Shiite militias in Iraq and Syria. These proxies engage in acts of terrorism, sectarian violence, and the suppression of dissent, often targeting civilians.

By identifying the IRGC as a terrorist organization, governments can disrupt its ability to operate freely on an international scale. This classification:

• Enables legal mechanisms to curb its financial resources by freezing assets and cutting off funding streams.
• Facilitates international cooperation to monitor and intercept illicit arms shipments that fuel conflicts.
• Signals strong opposition to the exportation of terrorism and the manipulation of regional conflicts for political gain.

2. Acknowledging Victims and Advocating for Human Rights

The IRGC is not only a source of terror abroad; it is also a tool of domestic repression within Iran. The IRGC operates as a parallel state authority, often overriding civilian government structures. It enforces its power through violence, intimidation, and censorship. The Basij militia, an IRGC subsidiary, has been instrumental in quelling protests and silencing dissent, frequently employing brutal tactics such as arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings.

By labeling the IRGC a terrorist organization, the international community acknowledges the suffering of Iranian citizens who have been victimized by its actions. This move:

• Amplifies the voices of Iranian dissidents and human rights defenders, demonstrating solidarity with their struggle.
• Exposes the IRGC’s abuses on the global stage, encouraging broader condemnation and accountability.
• Highlights the need for targeted sanctions, which can weaken the IRGC’s stranglehold on Iranian society.

3. Countering the IRGC’s Economic Exploitation

The IRGC’s influence extends into Iran’s economy, where it controls vast sectors, including construction, energy, telecommunications, and banking. Through these ventures, the IRGC not only enriches itself but also finances its military and terrorist activities. Corruption and economic mismanagement by the IRGC contribute to widespread poverty and inequality within Iran, exacerbating the suffering of ordinary citizens.

Designating the IRGC as a terrorist organization has tangible economic implications:

• Restricts international business dealings with IRGC-controlled entities, reducing its ability to generate revenue.
• Weakens the economic lifelines that sustain its operations, forcing it to scale back its activities.
• Pressures the Iranian regime to reform its economic practices, as sanctions impact broader economic stability.

4. Strengthening Global Security

The IRGC has been linked to numerous terrorist plots and attacks around the world, targeting not only regional adversaries but also Western nations. For example, the IRGC has been implicated in attempted assassinations, cyberattacks, and the orchestration of bombings targeting civilians and diplomats.

Recognizing the IRGC as a terrorist organization enhances global security efforts by:

• Improving intelligence-sharing among nations, as the IRGC’s networks and proxies are scrutinized more closely.
• Increasing vigilance against IRGC-affiliated activities, preventing future attacks.
• Demonstrating a unified front against state-sponsored terrorism, discouraging other nations from similar practices.

5. Upholding the Rule of Law and International Norms

The IRGC operates with impunity, violating international norms and principles of sovereignty. Its activities undermine the rule of law and erode trust in international institutions designed to promote peace and stability. A formal designation as a terrorist organization reinforces the importance of accountability and sets a precedent for addressing similar entities.

Why We at IRGC Act Started This Campaign

At IRGC Act, our mission is rooted in the belief that justice, security, and human rights are universal values that must be defended. We launched this campaign to ensure that the IRGC’s actions are not overlooked or minimized. Here’s why we are committed to this cause:

1. Raising Awareness: Many people around the world remain unaware of the IRGC’s multifaceted role in promoting terrorism and oppression. Through education and advocacy, we aim to inform policymakers, activists, and the general public about the urgent need to address the IRGC’s influence.
2. Supporting Victims: We stand in solidarity with those who have suffered under the IRGC’s reign of terror, whether they are dissidents in Iran, civilians in conflict zones, or victims of terrorist attacks abroad. Our campaign amplifies their stories and advocates for justice.
3. Encouraging Policy Action: By advocating for the IRGC’s designation as a terrorist organization, we aim to prompt concrete policy changes that weaken its ability to operate. This includes lobbying for targeted sanctions, increased intelligence cooperation, and robust enforcement of international laws.
4. Promoting Global Unity: The IRGC’s reach is international, and addressing its impact requires a coordinated global response. Our campaign fosters collaboration among nations, organizations, and individuals committed to combating terrorism and upholding human rights.

The Path Forward

The classification of the IRGC as a terrorist organization is not an end in itself; it is a means to an end. It is a step toward dismantling the structures that enable the IRGC to perpetrate violence, suppress dissent, and destabilize regions. At IRGC Act, we are dedicated to building a safer, more just world—one in which the actions of entities like the IRGC are neither tolerated nor ignored.

We call on governments, institutions, and individuals to join us in this critical effort. Together, we can hold the IRGC accountable, support its victims, and pave the way for a future where terrorism and oppression are no longer tools of power.