Senior Cleric Criticizes EU Move, Calls It Politically Motivated, Contrary to Human Rights

In an interview with Taghrib News Agency(TNA), Pourzahabi argued that NATO’s military operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and parts of Africa represent what he characterized as “clear examples of terrorism.”

He further stated that countries such as the United Kingdom, France, and the United States — which he described as having historical records of colonialism — have not demonstrated a strong track record in the fields of human rights and counterterrorism, either historically or in contemporary times.
Pourzahabi also noted that countries such as Iran, as well as Iraq, Yemen, and some Latin American nations including Brazil and Venezuela, have been subjected to pressure and interference despite, in his view, possessing legitimate political and ideological standing.
Referring to issues such as migration, racial discrimination, women’s rights, and prison conditions, he alleged that Western powers have committed numerous violations in recent decades. He also cited conflicts in Vietnam, Korea, Iraq, and Afghanistan as examples of actions undertaken, according to him, in pursuit of political and economic interests at the expense of human rights.
The cleric asserted that the European Union “lacks the moral standing” to take such measures, saying they are applying double standards. He argued that countries he described as centers of human rights violations often overlook abuses when committed by their allies.
In conclusion, Pourzahabi said that designating Iranian state institutions as terrorist entities under the banner of human rights reflects political objectives and material interests. He described the IRGC as a powerful arm of the Islamic Republic that enjoys public support, and characterized the EU’s move as baseless and politically motivated.