In a landmark move with significant implications for Albania’s national security and foreign policy, the Kuvendi i Shqipërisë (Parliament of Albania) has approved a resolution declaring the Islamic Republic of Iran a “state sponsor of terrorism” and a state that employs terrorist methods.
The resolution was adopted on Tuesday with 79 votes in favor and one abstention, while opposition lawmakers boycotted the session. This decision further formalizes Albania’s tough stance against Tehran, particularly following a series of cyberattacks that have directly targeted Albanian institutions.
Strong Condemnation of Iran’s Actions
Through this resolution, Albania condemns what it describes as Iran’s support and facilitation of terrorist acts, hybrid operations, and destabilizing activities across various regions of the world. The document also expresses full solidarity with friendly countries in the Arab Gulf and with Turkey, which have recently been targeted by Iranian actions.
The move places Albania firmly alongside Western allies, including the United States, in adopting a more assertive position toward Tehran’s regional conduct. It also signals Tirana’s continued alignment with Euro-Atlantic security priorities.
Cyberattacks Against Albania: A Turning Point
A central element behind the resolution is Iran’s alleged involvement in cyberattacks against Albanian state infrastructure. In 2022, Albania severed diplomatic relations with Iran after a major cyberattack targeted government digital services and public infrastructure. Investigations by Albanian authorities, supported by international partners, attributed the attack to Iranian state-linked actors.
The new resolution also condemns recent attempts to interfere with the systems of the Albanian Parliament itself. These incidents have reinforced concerns about state-sponsored cyber warfare and hybrid threats facing Albania.
As a NATO member and a candidate country for deeper European integration, Albania’s cybersecurity resilience has become a matter of both national and allied importance.
Call to Designate IRGC and Hezbollah as Terrorist Organizations
The resolution calls on the Albanian government to immediately designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. The IRGC is a powerful branch of Iran’s armed forces, often linked by Western governments to regional military interventions and support for proxy groups.
Additionally, the resolution urges the government to officially list Hezbollah as a terrorist organization, identifying it as part of Iran’s broader network. Several Western countries, including the United States, have already taken similar steps.
By aligning with these measures, Albania aims to strengthen international cooperation against state-sponsored terrorism and global security threats.
Political Reactions in Albania
Prime Minister Edi Rama had earlier signaled that such a resolution was forthcoming. The opposition Partia Demokratike e Shqipërisë (Democratic Party of Albania), however, boycotted the parliamentary session, arguing that it was convened for the personal political agenda of the Prime Minister and the Speaker of Parliament rather than as a regular legislative sitting.
Despite political divisions at home, the resolution passed with a solid majority, reflecting a broad institutional consensus on national security matters.
What This Means for Albania and Albanians
For Albanians, this decision marks another decisive step in the country’s pro-Western orientation and commitment to counterterrorism efforts. Since cutting diplomatic ties with Iran in 2022, Albania has reinforced its security posture and strengthened cooperation with strategic allies.
The resolution also underscores Albania’s intention to play a proactive role in combating hybrid threats, including cyber warfare, state-sponsored terrorism, and regional destabilization efforts.
As geopolitical tensions continue to shape global politics, Albania’s latest move sends a clear message: the country stands firmly with its allies in defending democratic institutions, cybersecurity, and regional stability.