On Tuesday, Western powers imposed new sanctions on Iran for allegedly supplying short-range missiles to Russia, intended for use against Ukraine. The sanctions were described as a response to what was deemed a dangerous escalation of the conflict that threatens European security.
The United States announced sanctions targeting over a dozen individuals and companies in Iran and Russia, accusing Tehran of making an “escalatory” decision to provide ballistic missiles to Moscow. The sanctions include restrictions on 10 people, six companies, and four vessels involved in supporting Iran’s defense sector and facilitating weapons transfers.
Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo emphasized that these measures are a coordinated effort by the U.S. and its allies to address Iran’s “reckless” actions. Additionally, the U.S. Department of State designated three entities, including Iran Air, and blocked five vessels associated with the proliferation of Iranian weapons systems to Russia.
Britain, France, and Germany also announced new sanctions targeting Iran’s air transport sector, including the cancellation of bilateral air service agreements. They condemned the missile transfers as a direct threat to European security.
Iran’s foreign ministry has denied the allegations, calling them propaganda, and criticized the U.S. for focusing on Iran while supporting Israel in its conflict with Hamas.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, on a visit to London, warned that the missiles could be deployed against Ukraine “within weeks.” He criticized Iran’s actions as counterproductive to its efforts to engage with Europe and seek sanctions relief.
In response, the UK has begun terminating direct air services with Iran and imposed sanctions on Iran Air and associated entities. Meanwhile, Blinken plans to visit Kyiv with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy to show solidarity with Ukraine as the conflict with Russia intensifies.
