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EU prepares new sanctions on Iran amid ongoing protests and repression

Brussels steps up economic and diplomatic pressure on Tehran as human rights abuses and violent crackdowns escalate

EU prepares new sanctions on Iran amid ongoing protests and repression – The European Union is preparing to implement new sanctions on Iran in response to the brutal crackdown on ongoing protests, which human rights groups estimate may have caused up to 12,000 deaths. The measures, similar to those applied to Russia after the invasion of Ukraine, aim to exert economic and diplomatic pressure while the United States and Israel consider military options.

EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have signaled their readiness to expand current restrictive measures. Von der Leyen condemned the excessive use of force and ongoing restrictions on freedoms, emphasizing the EU’s support for the Iranian people marching for liberty.

The new sanctions will build upon existing measures targeting human rights abuses, nuclear proliferation, and Iran’s military support to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. Past sanctions, in place since 2011 and extended through April 13, 2026, have included travel bans, asset freezes, and prohibitions on supplying equipment that could be used for internal repression. Currently, over 230 individuals and 40 entities have been sanctioned for human rights violations.

In addition, the EU has imposed three cycles of drone-related sanctions and established frameworks for Iran’s military support to armed groups in the Middle East and Red Sea regions. Sanctioned parties include drone manufacturers, missile propellant producers, shipping companies, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Navy, Iranian airlines, and senior defense officials. These measures are in effect until July 27, 2026.

Commercial sanctions include bans on exporting arms, dual-use goods, nuclear-related equipment, crude oil, natural gas, petrochemical products, and certain software. Financial sanctions cover the Iranian Central Bank and major commercial banks, with strict reporting and authorization rules for large fund transfers. Transport sanctions restrict Iranian cargo flights and maintenance services within EU territory.

Most recently, on September 29, 2025, the EU reinstated all economic and financial sanctions related to Iran’s nuclear program that had been lifted in 2016, following the UN Security Council’s decision not to extend the suspension of UN sanctions.

These steps underline the EU’s determination to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to hold accountable those responsible for human rights violations. The EU continues to prioritize both diplomatic and economic pressure to support fundamental rights and freedoms for the Iranian population.

Foto © Ernie Audino

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