TEHRAN – The Iranian Parliament has strongly condemned Canada's decision to label the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity, expressing firm support for the IRGC and its crucial role in enhancing Iran’s regional and international standing.

On Sunday and in a statement endorsed by over 250 lawmakers, the Iranian Parliament criticized the Canadian government’s "ill-advised" decision to blacklist the IRGC. They described this measure as "idiotic" and a violation of international laws, accusing Canada of supporting the Zionist regime.

The MPs urged the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to use all political and international channels to denounce Canada's decision.

According to the statement, the Canadian government, a known supporter of the Zionist regime and its actions in Gaza, blacklisted the IRGC following Iran's retaliatory True Promise Operation against Israeli military targets.

On June 19, Canada’s Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc announced the IRGC's designation as a "terrorist entity" under the Criminal Code, advising Canadians in Iran to leave the country. This decision followed a non-binding resolution by the Canadian House of Commons urging the government to blacklist the IRGC and expel about 700 Iranians.

Canada’s move mirrors a similar action by the United States five years ago. This act by Canada is expected to increase pressure on European states, which have so far resisted escalating tensions with Iran.

The IRGC, including its elite Quds Force, has been instrumental in combating Daesh terrorists in Iraq and Syria, preventing the group's spread.

Iran’s acting Foreign Minister condemned Canada’s decision on Thursday, calling it a senseless gift to Israel, terrorists, and enemies of peace in West Asia. 

“Canada's unlawful act of declaring an integral part of the official military force of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which has played an irreplaceable role in defending the national security and territorial integrity of dear Iran, protecting the security and stability of the region, and confronting the terrorism by Daesh, was malicious and violates the principles and rules of international law,” Ali Baqeri Kani wrote on X.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani also issued a statement accusing Canada of interfering in Iran’s internal affairs. Kanaani emphasized that Canada’s move will not impact the IRGC's capabilities and warned Ottawa to expect a “proper response” for its illegal act.

Following Canada’s move, Iran’s Foreign Ministry summoned the Italian ambassador to Tehran, the protector of Canada’s interests, to deliver its strong demarche on Thursday. The Italian ambassador assured that she would promptly raise the issue with Canadian officials.

culled from Tehran Times