Classified Dossier Alleges IRGC Operatives Hold Diplomatic Cover in EU

A classified dossier seen by Euractiv alleges that some Iranian military representatives in Europe are active Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) officers operating under diplomatic cover. This raises concerns that individuals linked to a sanctioned organization benefit from diplomatic protections and freedom of movement across the EU, especially after the EU designated the IRGC as a terrorist organization in January.

The document identifies Mohammad Naghizadeh, Iran’s military attaché in Poland, as an active IRGC member capable of advancing the organization’s financial and operational interests in Europe. Critics argue that allowing such representatives to remain accredited undermines the bloc’s counterterrorism policy. The dossier recommends sanctions and expulsions targeting Iranian military attachés and diplomats allegedly linked to the IRGC to further isolate Tehran and curb the organization’s international reach.

German intelligence recently warned Iran could intensify operations against European targets once conflicts with Israel and the US subside. The report also suggests the Iranian state is increasingly dominated by the Revolutionary Guards, with IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi described as the de facto decision-maker. The dossier claims the IRGC played a decisive role in elevating Mojtaba Khamenei to supreme leadership and now influences Iran’s foreign policy, including negotiations with the US and oversight of proxy groups. It also notes a growing wave of defections among Iranian diplomats abroad. EU governments are divided on escalating pressure, fearing further confrontation could disrupt diplomatic channels.