The administration of Donald Trump has instructed American diplomats worldwide to الضغط allies to formally designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Lebanon-based Hezbollah as terrorist organizations, citing a growing threat of attacks, according to Reuters.
A Coordinated Diplomatic Push
An internal directive dated March 16 and signed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was sent to all U.S. embassies and consulates. It instructs diplomats to deliver the message to foreign counterparts “at the highest appropriate level” no later than March 20.
The cable also emphasizes coordination with Israeli counterparts, signaling a joint diplomatic and security effort amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Rallying Allies Amid Escalation
The move comes as Washington seeks to consolidate support following the recent U.S.–Israel military operations linked to tensions with Iran. However, some allies appear hesitant.
Several U.S. partners have reportedly declined immediate involvement in securing the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global oil route—despite calls from President Trump.
Security Justification
According to the directive, the push is driven by:
- Rising risks of attacks by Iran and its regional proxies
- The need to limit operational capabilities of affiliated groups
- A belief that collective international pressure is more effective than unilateral action
The cable states that coordinated designation efforts would increase pressure on Tehran and restrict its ability to support militant activities globally.
Strategic Target: Iran’s Power Structure
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is an elite military force tasked with protecting Iran’s ruling system, while also wielding significant economic and political influence. Meanwhile, Hezbollah remains one of the most powerful non-state armed groups in the region.
Both entities are already designated as terrorist organizations by the United States and several other countries, but Washington now aims to expand that designation globally.
Broader Implications
A State Department spokesperson reiterated that the administration is focused on ensuring stability in the region, arguing that Iran-backed groups are destabilizing governments and undermining peace across the Middle East.
This latest diplomatic push reflects a broader U.S. strategy: combining military pressure with coordinated international action to reshape the regional balance of power—and force behavioral change from Tehran.
