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Canada has officially designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist group, following years of pressure from opposition MPs and members of the Iranian diaspora.
The action aligns Canada with the United States, which made a similar declaration in 2019, and the United Kingdom, which has signalled plans to do the same.
The Canadian government announced the decision on June 19, 2024, reaffirming its commitment to combating terrorist financing.
According to the government’s statement, the decision to list the IRGC through the Criminal Code listing policy sends a strong message that Canada will use every means at its command to combat the terrorist activity of the IRGC, conducted both unilaterally and in association with listed terrorist entities such as Hezbollah and Hamas.
The IRGC, a robust military force in Iran with about 190,000 active personnel, reports directly to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
It also manages the Quds Force, which was formerly labeled as a terrorist organization by Canada.
Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs immediately criticized the designation, calling it an “unwise and unconventional politically motivated step.”
Spokesperson Nasser Kanaani stated that Canada’s move would not affect the IRGC’s lawful and deterrent ability, hinting at possible retaliation.
Dominic LeBlanc, Canada’s Minister of Public Safety, said Iran’s human rights record significantly influenced the decision.
LeBlanc added that the Iranian regime has consistently displayed a complete disregard for human rights, both inside and outside Iran, as well as a willingness to destabilize the international rules-based order.
Foreign Minister Melanie Joly cautioned Canadians not to travel to Iran, citing the possibility of unlawful detention.
Relations between Canada and Iran have been tense for decades.
Diplomatic connections were suspended in 2012, and tensions worsened further in 2020 when the IRGC shot down Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752, killing all 176 people on board, including 55 Canadian nationals and 30 permanent residents.
The designation mandates that Canadian financial institutions freeze any IRGC assets and restricts Canadians from conducting financial transactions with the organization.
Furthermore, it prohibits senior Iranian officials, including those from the IRGC, from entering Canada.
Current and former senior Iranian officials in Canada may now face investigation and deportation.
This decision comes after a long campaign by opposition parties and families of Flight PS752 victims.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has previously expressed concern about unexpected implications for Iranians in Canada who opposed the regime but had served in the IRGC.
LeBlanc stated that the decision was made after a “deliberative process” that considered the advice of security services and foreign policy concerns.
The step demonstrates Canada’s commitment to holding Iran accountable for its conduct while supporting international anti-terrorism efforts.
Reference: Al Jazeera, BBC
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Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.
About Author
Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.
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