• France supports EU move to label Iran's IRGC a terrorist organization.
• The decision follows ongoing protests in Iran and widespread international condemnation.
• The EU is expected to implement sanctions and asset freezes against the IRGC.
• Iran warns of "destructive consequences" if the designation goes ahead.
• France's shift signifies a political turnaround after prior hesitations.

France has announced its support for the European Union's move to designate Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, a notable reversal of its earlier stance. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot highlighted the urgent need to respond to what he called the "unbearable repression of the Iranian people's peaceful uprising," emphasizing that their courage must not be overlooked, according to Le Monde and Reuters.

The decision comes as EU foreign ministers prepare to meet in Brussels to finalize new sanctions against the IRGC, following its significant role in the violent crackdown on protests that have left thousands dead and many more detained. Barrot's remarks on social media outlined France's commitment to supporting sanctions, stating that actions will be taken against those responsible for the violence, including bans and asset freezes, according to Al Jazeera and Reuters.

France's support follows a previous hesitance regarding the designation, as it feared breaking ties with Iran and jeopardizing diplomatic negotiations, particularly concerning the fate of French citizens held in Iran. Previously, there was concern that adding the IRGC to the EU's terrorist list could lead to the deterioration of diplomatic relations and affect ongoing hostage negotiations, as Paris seeks to ensure the safety of its citizens in Iran, as noted by Le Monde and Al Jazeera.

Iran has responded vehemently against the EU's anticipated designation, warning of "destructive consequences" if such actions are implemented. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, set up post-1979 revolution, is seen as a critical component of Iran's military and economic strategy, holding significant influence over various sectors within Iran and abroad. Iran’s government claims a much lower death toll from protests compared to reports from human rights organizations, such as the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), which cites over 6,200 deaths associated with the recent protests, reflecting tensions not only within Iran but also in its relations with Western nations, according to Reuters and Al Jazeera.