The French National Assembly has taken a bold stance in condemning the Iranian regime by passing a resolution that calls on the French government and the European Union to officially designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. The resolution, which was introduced by MP Constance Le Grip from the governing Renaissance party, highlights the IRGC’s significant role in the repression of Iranian citizens, particularly the Women Life Freedom Movement. The resolution follows a global wave of condemnation against the Iranian regime for its violent crackdown on protests and its systematic violation of human rights.
In her speech to the assembly, Le Grip outlined the IRGC’s powerful control over nearly two-thirds of Iran’s economy, describing it as the central pillar of the regime’s security apparatus. She emphasized that the IRGC not only suppresses domestic dissent but also funds and supports terrorist organizations within Iran and across the region. Le Grip described the IRGC as the “backbone” of the Iranian government, asserting that its influence extends beyond security forces, touching the regime’s ideology and financial structure as well.
The resolution goes further in calling for immediate action to address the harsh policies imposed on Iranian women, notably the compulsory hijab law. French lawmakers expressed unconditional support for the Iranian protest movement, which has gained significant traction in response to these oppressive policies. The resolution calls on Iranian authorities to end mandatory dress codes, stop the use of the death penalty, and release all individuals who have been arrested for protesting or violating the hijab law. These actions are seen as part of a broader push for women’s rights and freedom of expression in Iran.
Lawmakers also urged the Iranian regime to provide compensation to the victims of the brutal crackdown on protests in September 2022, which resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. Furthermore, the resolution calls for full cooperation with international investigations, including those led by the UN Special Rapporteur, in order to ensure accountability for the Iranian authorities’ actions. By bringing attention to the IRGC’s complicity in these atrocities, the resolution seeks to hold both the regime and its security forces accountable for their involvement in serious human rights violations.
The resolution also touches on broader concerns about the international implications of the IRGC’s actions. French lawmakers called for the European Union and other international bodies to take a firm stance against Iran, pressuring the regime through sanctions and diplomatic measures. The goal is not only to apply political and economic pressure but also to send a clear message that such widespread abuses will not be tolerated by the international community.
In addition to the call for sanctions and the terrorist designation of the IRGC, the French Parliament’s resolution emphasizes the need for a united global response to the Iranian regime’s actions. The resolution highlights the importance of standing in solidarity with Iranian protesters, especially women, who have faced intense repression for demanding basic rights and freedoms. By urging further international measures, France hopes to catalyze global action against the Iranian regime’s abuse of power and its suppression of dissent.