The nationwide protests in Iran are openly directed against the regime, which has responded with increasingly brutal violence. Internationally, the regime seeks to discredit the protests by labeling them “unrests” or blaming alleged foreign interference, in an attempt to divert attention from its violent crackdown.
In my speech, I made clear that the regime has lost all legitimacy – politically, economically, and morally. The question is no longer whether it will fall, but when – and how many lives it will destroy in the meantime. It is our responsibility here in Europe to help shorten this timeline and to stand united alongside the people of Iran. Further details can be found in my press release with the Greens/EFA Group and in the resolution that I initiated and negotiated.
My speech:
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More InformationIn the European Parliament resolution of 22 January 2026 which was adopted by a broad majority, we call among other things for:
- An end to executions, the release of all political prisoners, and the restoration of internet access in Iran
- The designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation
- The full implementation of existing sanctions and their expansion to include those individuals responsible
- The expulsion of Iranian diplomats from the EU who abuse their privileges to spread disinformation and to persecute and repress Iranians in Europe
- Support for technologies that enable circumvention of internet shutdowns
- Protection for persecuted Iranians
- Strengthening Europe’s resilience against cyberattacks
We have been calling for the designation of the IRGC for years, yet it continues to be blocked in the Council by several member states. Unofficially, these are known to be Italy, Spain, and France. In light of the most recent developments, this position is completely incomprehensible to me. We are currently increasing pressure on these governments to change their stance, as the next meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Council will take place on 29 January 2026.
