But the move by Europe, long considered, will put new pressure on Iran as its economy already struggles under the weight of international sanctions. EU likely to sanction the GuardThe EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, told journalists it was likely the sanctions would be put in place. In Iran, the unbearable repression that has engulfed the peaceful revolt of the Iranian people cannot go unanswered, he said. The Guard’s all-volunteer Basij force likely was key in putting down the demonstrations, starting in earnest from Jan. 8, when authorities cut off the global internet for the nation of 85 million people. Videos that have emerged from Iran via Starlink satellite dishes and other means show men likely belonging to its forces shooting and beating protesters.