In a forceful stance before the upcoming European elections, the European Parliament in Strasbourg passed a comprehensive resolution against the Iranian regime. The resolution, garnering a majority vote, addressed several key issues:
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Human Rights Violations and Terrorism: The parliament strongly condemned Iran’s severe human rights abuses and reiterated its support for blacklisting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). They further condemned the IRGC for the terrorist attack on Dr. Alejo Vidal-Quadras and Iran’s ongoing hostage-taking policy.
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Condemnation of Attacks and Call for De-Escalation: The parliament condemned both Iran’s recent drone and missile strikes on Israel and the preceding attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus (attributed to Israel). While emphasizing the importance of respecting diplomatic immunity, the resolution urged all parties to exercise restraint and de-escalate tensions.
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Sanctions and the IRGC: MEPs expressed strong support for expanding existing EU sanctions against Iran. This includes sanctions on Iran’s supply of drones and missiles to Russia and other Middle Eastern countries. The resolution also reiterated the long-standing call to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization, highlighting its destabilizing role in the region. Additionally, it called for adding Hezbollah to the EU terror list.
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Nuclear Deal and Hostage Diplomacy: The parliament condemned Iran’s non-compliance with the JCPOA (nuclear deal) and urged them to fulfill their obligations. Furthermore, they condemned the Iranian practice of hostage-taking and called for the EU to develop a strategy to counter it, including a dedicated task force to support detainees’ families and prevent future hostage situations.
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Freedom of Navigation: The resolution welcomed the launch of the EU Naval Force Operation ASPIDES, aimed at safeguarding freedom of navigation off the coast of Yemen. It also urged Iran to release captured European crew members from vessels operating in the region.
This strong resolution reflects the European Parliament’s deep concern about Iran’s actions and its unwavering support for regional security and human rights.
