Europe shooting itself in the foot: Amir-Abdollahian to Borrell

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
19 Jan 2023 14:03
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During a phone conversation with EU foreign policy Chief Josep Borrell, Amir-Abdollahian strongly bashed EU vote to place Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) on the bloc's “terror” list.

Iranian Foreign Minister attends a meeting with his Russian counterpart in Moscow, on January 20, 2022. (Reuters)

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian told EU's Foreign Policy chief Josep Borrell that IRGC is a sovereign, state apparatus, and plays an important role in securing Iranian national security, regional security, and fighting terrorism.

"We warn of negative consequences on Europe of such shortsighted behavior, and demand focus on diplomacy," he added.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Amir-Abdollahian tersely stated that the EU Parliament's measure against this Iranian security institution is akin to Europe shooting itself in the foot.

On his account, Borrell told Amir-Abdollahian that "although the EU Parliament is an independent institution, the draft resolution lacks executive strength and only reflects only European fears."

The phone call came just one day after members of the European Parliament demanded that the EU classify Iran's IRGC as a "terrorist" organization.

On Wednesday, the European Parliament held a session and voted on this proposal noting that the results are non-binding.

The vote was approved with 598 members voting in favor, 9 against, and 31 abstentions.

Iranian Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi stated that the EU's decision to include the Iranian IRGC on its "terrorist list" demonstrates the Europeans' desperation and ignorance, emphasizing that the designation will not hinder the IRGC's anti-terror campaign.

IRGC chief: Enemies' sanctions aimed at impoverishing Iranian people

Earlier in the month, Islamic Revolution Guard Corps Major General Hossein Salami warned that unilateral economic sanctions against Iran are aimed at impoverishing the country.

Salami announced that the IRGC is resolved to fight against the Western plot and has begun the combat against the spread of poverty and economic deprivation throughout the nation.

“This is our main mission in dear Iran, as under the light of the Islamic Revolution and the dear leaders of the Revolution, very serious resolve has been created by God’s grace to eliminate (economic) deprivation,” Salami remarked.

The commander praised the Basij forces for their accomplishment in resolving social issues and declared that via their actions, every aspect of the economic war imposed on Iran by the adversaries will be addressed.