Iran Faces Sanctions from EU Over its Latest Transaction with Russia

The European Union imposed sanctions on Monday, October 14, against prominent Iranian officials and entities, including airlines, accused of facilitating the transfer of missiles and drones for Russia to use against Ukraine. EU foreign ministers approved sanctions on seven entities, including Iran Air, and seven individuals, notably deputy defence minister Seyed Hamzeh Ghalandari and senior officials from the Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force.

Leading European powers, including Britain, France, and Germany, adopted similar sanctions last month regarding Iranian missile transfers to Russia, a move that was echoed by the United States. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the adoption of the sanctions by the entire bloc but emphasized that “more is needed.” She stated, “The Iranian regime's support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine is unacceptable and must stop,” in a post on X.

The EU measures also targeted two other Iranian airlines, Saha Airlines and Mahan Air, along with two procurement firms blamed for the transfer and supply of Iran-made UAVs and related components and advanced technologies to Russia through transnational procurement networks. Additionally, the sanctions impacted two companies involved in producing propellant used to launch rockets and missiles.

As a result of these sanctions, those targeted are subject to an asset freeze and are banned from traveling to the EU.