Iran Designates Argentine Navy and Air Force as Terrorist Organisations

Iran Designates Argentine Naval and Air Forces as “Terrorist Organizations”

In a move that mirrors a designation made by Argentina against Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in March, the Iranian government has announced it will label the naval and air forces of Argentina as “terrorist organizations”. The decision was made by the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, citing the principle of reciprocity.

According to the statement, the Argentine military branches are considered “terrorist organizations” due to this designation. The Iranian government asserts that responsibility for any consequences arising from this matter lies with the Argentine government.

Argentina’s foreign ministry has responded to the designation, stating that it categorically rejects Iran’s claim. The statement describes the measure as “completely baseless and constitutes an unacceptable accusation”.

This development marks a continuation of strained relations between Iran and Argentina, which have been exacerbated by past incidents. In 1994, Argentina blamed Iran-backed group Hezbollah for a deadly bombing attack on the AMIA Jewish community centre in Buenos Aires, resulting in 85 fatalities and hundreds of injuries.

The designation of the IRGC as a “terrorist organization” was made by Argentina’s government on March 31, with President Javier Milei stating that it aimed to settle a historical debt of over 30 years with the families of the victims. The move has been seen as part of a broader push by the US and Israel to isolate Iran.

President Milei’s government has taken a firm stance in support of the US and Israel on this issue, while also reviving Argentina’s dispute with the UK over the Falkland Islands.

Source: Al Jazeera