The European Union has agreed to impose sanctions on nine Iranian entities, including Iran’s Defense Minister Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani, for supplying drones to Russia that have been used in Moscow’s war against Ukraine.
The decision was reached on Friday by ambassadors from EU governments in Brussels. It will be formally announced by EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell after endorsement by EU foreign ministers during their meeting on Monday.
The sanctions will include travel bans and asset freezes on the listed individuals and entities, as well as a prohibition on making funds or economic resources available to them.
This move comes as the EU seeks to increase pressure on Iran over its military support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Tehran has supplied Moscow with drones that have been used in strikes against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure and cities.
Recent Major EU Sanctions on Iran
In addition to the latest measures targeting Iran’s drone program, the EU has significantly ramped up sanctions on Tehran in recent months for various reasons:
Human Rights Violations
Since October 2022, the EU has adopted 10 packages of sanctions in response to the deteriorating human rights situation in Iran and the violent crackdown on protests following the death of Mahsa Amini. hese sanctions target individuals and entities involved in human rights abuses.
Support for Russia’s War
In July 2023, the EU imposed trade restrictions and asset freezes related to Iran’s military support for Russia’s war in Ukraine, including a ban on exporting critical components used to manufacture lethal drones.
Nuclear Activities
The EU has maintained sanctions on Iran’s nuclear program, including asset freezes and trade restrictions, since 2006 due to concerns over nuclear proliferation activities.
The latest sanctions demonstrate the EU’s commitment to holding Iran accountable for its destabilizing actions in the region and its support for Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
