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Paraguay’s Designation of Iranian IRGC as Terror Organization: A Diplomatic Milestone
The Trump administration has praised a significant action taken by Paraguayan President Santiago Peña in the ongoing global efforts against terrorism. On Thursday, the U.S. State Department congratulated Paraguay for officially deeming Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) a terrorist organization, a declaration viewed as a major setback for Iran’s terror networks operating within the Western Hemisphere.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized the importance of this designation, stating, “The United States welcomes President Santiago Peña’s designation of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.” This designation is complemented by Paraguay’s decision to expand its 2019 classifications, which initially targeted the armed factions of Hezbollah and Hamas, to encompass the entire organizations.
Impact on Regional Stability
The U.S. administration regards this move as a robust stand against Iranian-backed extremism. Bruce noted that “Iran remains the leading state sponsor of terrorism in the world,” highlighting its involvement in financing and orchestrating terrorist activities globally, particularly through its Qods Force and supporting groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.
Particularly noteworthy is the decision’s significance concerning the Tri-Border Area—a region where Paraguay meets Argentina and Brazil, historically a known financial crossroads for Hezbollah affiliates. The State Department asserted that Paraguay’s actions could disrupt the Iranian government’s capacity to fund terrorism and operate within Latin America effectively.
Bruce reiterated this point, stating, “The important steps Paraguay has taken will help cut off the ability of the Iranian regime and its proxies to plot terrorist attacks and raise money for its malignant and destabilizing activity.” This area is seen as crucial in the fight against such activities.
Continuing Diplomatic Engagements
This latest initiative builds upon Trump’s longstanding commitment to confront Iranian influence, a primary focus of his foreign policy since his initial term. The administration’s withdrawal from the Iran nuclear agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in 2018 marked a pivotal moment in this strategy, which Trump described as “one of the worst and most one-sided transactions the United States has ever entered into.”
Currently, the administration is re-engaging in negotiations pertaining to Iran’s nuclear program but is insisting on its terms. Having already held two rounds of talks this month, with a third anticipated soon, progress has reportedly been made, though substantive details remain confidential.
Bruce concluded the State Department’s announcement by urging “all countries” to join in holding the Iranian regime accountable. As the U.S. continues to navigate these complex diplomatic waters, the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization reflects a critical step in shaping the regional security landscape.
The role of the United States as a key ally remains foundational in supporting nations like Paraguay in combatting threats posed by Iran’s extensive network.
Currently, the U.S. does not have a permanent ambassador to Paraguay; instead, Amir Masliyah serves as the Chargé D’Affaires.
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