Ottawa, 21 June 2024 – Canada has officially designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. This decision, announced on Wednesday (June 19) by Canada's Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc, follows years of advocacy by opposition lawmakers and segments of the Iranian expatriate community.

Minister LeBlanc emphasized that labeling the IRGC as a terrorist organization is a crucial measure in the global fight against terrorism. The designation is intended to disrupt the IRGC's operations by leveraging Canada's legal and financial tools.

As a consequence of this designation:

  • Entry Ban: Thousands of senior Iranian government and IRGC officials will be barred from entering Canada.
  • Financial Restrictions: Canada will have the authority to freeze financial transactions involving the IRGC under its jurisdiction.

In a formal statement, the Canadian government underscored that listing the IRGC in the Criminal Code serves as a robust deterrent against the group's terrorist activities. The move is intended to signal Canada's commitment to using all available resources to counteract terrorism.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesman, Nasser Kanani, condemned Canada's decision, labeling it as unwise and unconventional. He asserted that this move would not impact the legitimacy or deterrent capabilities of the IRGC.

Canada's designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization marks a significant stance in international counterterrorism efforts. The move is expected to limit the IRGC's operations and send a strong message about Canada's dedication to combating terrorism globally.