On Monday, the Council of the European Union (EU) announced a new set of sanctions against seven high-ranking Iranian officials and seven entities. This decision came after allegations that Iran has been supplying missiles and missile parts to Russia. The move is part of ongoing efforts to respond to actions deemed threatening to European security, particularly related to the conflict in Ukraine.
Background on the Sanctions
The sanctions were adopted following concerns about missile and drone transfers from Iran to Russia. These transfers have raised alarm bells within the EU, prompting officials to act decisively. Among those sanctioned is Seyed Hamzeh Ghalandari, Iran’s deputy defense minister, known for his role in the country’s military strategies.
In addition to Ghalandari, several prominent officials from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Qods Force, which plays a significant role in Iran’s military operations, were also targeted. The sanctions specifically mention the IRGC Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters and the IRGC Aerospace Force Space Division, both crucial to Iran’s military capabilities.
The newly imposed sanctions follow a prior decision made by the European Council in March 2024. This earlier decision stated that if Iran were to transfer ballistic missiles and technology to Russia for use in Ukraine, the EU would respond quickly with new and significant restrictions. This week’s actions are a direct result of those threats becoming reality.
Details of the New Sanctions
The EU has expressed serious concerns regarding Iranian-made ballistic missiles being sent to Russia. The EU characterized these transfers as a clear danger to European security in a statement released on September 13. The EU labeled this action as a significant escalation from previous support that included unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and ammunition used by Russia in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In the latest sanctions, the EU has targeted not only individuals but also companies and entities believed to be facilitating these military transfers. The council specified that the sanctions apply to organizations that have been responsible for developing and transferring UAVs, missiles, and related technology to Russia. This is seen as a contribution to Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine, as well as support for various armed groups in the Middle East and the Red Sea region that are believed to undermine peace and security.
Three Iranian airlines—Saha Airlines, Mahan Air, and Iran Air—were also named in the sanctions. These airlines are alleged to have played a role in the supply and transfer of Iranian UAVs and associated technologies. The council described the airlines as being involved in “transnational procurement networks,” suggesting that they were part of a broader scheme to provide military resources to Russia.
In addition to the airlines, two procurement firms were identified as being engaged in the acquisition of materials necessary for the production of military technology. Other companies have been implicated in the production of propellant fuel, which is essential for launching rockets and missiles.
Implications of the Sanctions
The newly imposed sanctions carry significant consequences. The assets of the individuals and entities involved will be frozen, effectively cutting them off from accessing their funds within the EU. Additionally, those targeted will face travel bans, preventing them from entering EU member states.
Moreover, the EU has stated that any provision of funds or economic resources, either directly or indirectly, to those listed under the sanctions is prohibited. This means that businesses and individuals within the EU must refrain from engaging in any financial transactions that could benefit these Iranian officials and companies.
These sanctions are part of a larger strategy by the EU to hold accountable those involved in activities that threaten regional stability and security. By imposing these measures, the EU aims to signal its strong opposition to the actions taken by Iran in supporting Russia’s military efforts and its influence in the Middle East.
EU’s Tough Sanctions on Iran
These punishments become enforceable and formalized when the pertinent legal acts are published in the EU’s Official Journal. This process ensures that all member states are aware of the measures and can act accordingly.
The sanctions are also seen as a response to Iran’s ongoing military ambitions, which many within the EU view as a threat not just to European nations but to international peace as a whole. By targeting key figures and organizations, the EU hopes to disrupt the flow of military resources and technology that contribute to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and other regions.
The new sanctions represent a significant escalation in the EU’s response to Iranian actions perceived as hostile. They highlight the EU’s commitment to protecting its security interests and its willingness to take decisive action against those who violate international norms and contribute to destabilizing activities.
