Background Context
I am writing as a concerned resident/citizen about the ongoing crisis in Iran and its impact on Iranians both at home and here in Europe. Recent reports describe an unprecedented bloodshed: “At least 12,000 people have been killed” in Iran’s latest protests, mostly in two days of crackdown during an internet blackout. These figures, confirmed by Iran International (a London-based Persian news outlet), indicate “the largest killing in Iran’s contemporary history”. Even Iranian state sources now acknowledge that Iran’s Supreme Leader directly ordered live fire on demonstrators. (This follows the brutal 2022 repression after Mahsa Amini’s death, when more than 500 protesters were shot and thousands jailed.) We appreciate strong statements by European leaders, but they must translate into far tougher action given the regime’s crimes.
At the same time, the Islamic Republic is menacing Iranians here in Europe. European security agencies have reported credible threats linked to Iran’s networks. There have been multiple cases across Europe involving harassment, intimidation, and surveillance of Iranian dissidents and journalists, consistent with transnational repression by SEPAH/IRGC and affiliated networks. In London and elsewhere, Iranian regime fronts operate openly: for example, the Islamic Centre of England in Maida Vale in London (a former cinema) has been described as “the centre of Iranian influences in the UK,” headed by a Khamenei appointee. At the Kanoon Towhid centre and other venues, IRGC commanders have even lectured students on extremist ideology. Journalists and activists remain under threat: the Iran International TV channel had to move from London to Washington in 2023 “citing threats” from Iranian agents, and BBC Persian reporters in the UK still face harassment. In short, Tehran’s security forces (Sepah/IRGC) are operating here by proxy, intimidating our community and preparing the ground for attacks.
Your Demands
Declare SEPAH/IRGC a Terrorist Organisation. Following repeated calls in the European Parliament and across member states, the EU should formally designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (also known as Sepah) as a terrorist group. This would make it far harder for IRGC-linked networks to operate, fundraise, recruit, or intimidate in Europe.
Intensify Sanctions & Asset Freezes. Use EU sanctions powers to the full: target IRGC commanders and affiliated entities, freeze any assets in EU jurisdictions, and sanction banks or companies that facilitate Iran’s funding of violence. Europe must not become a safe haven for Tehran’s enablers.
Ensure Police Protection and Investigation. Member-state authorities must be directed to treat threats against Iranian dissidents as a matter of public safety and national security. We ask for clear assurances that Iranians in Europe will receive full protection, and that any credible reports of intimidation by foreign agents or proxies will be thoroughly investigated.
Create Safe & Legal Routes for Refuge. Advocate the creation of humanitarian visas or coordinated protection routes for vulnerable Iranians whose lives are at risk. Europe should offer expedited protection for activists, journalists, and especially women and minorities who face execution in Iran.
Stop Negotiating with the Islamic Regime. Press EU institutions and member states to withhold any new deals or talks with the regime while it commits mass repression. At a minimum, demand an immediate end to executions and live fire, and support credible international investigations before any further engagement.
Lead International Pressure. Use Europe’s influence in the UN and international forums to isolate the regime and hold it accountable, including for transnational repression targeting people in Europe.
The evidence is overwhelming and the threat real: Iranians in Europe now live under the shadow of Tehran’s security services. We cannot afford complacency. By designating the IRGC, freezing its assets, and safeguarding our community, Europe would uphold its values and protect innocent lives. We respectfully ask for your urgent support including raising this issue formally and pressing for concrete action so that Europe’s response matches the gravity of the situation.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. We look forward to your leadership in defending human rights and the safety of Iranians in Europe.
Yours sincerely,
CC: High Representative/Vice-President (EEAS); relevant parliamentary committees; relevant interior/home affairs and foreign affairs officials.