EU expands sanctions on Iran over support for Russia in war with Ukraine

By Necva Tastan Sevinc

ISTANBUL (AA) — The EU said Monday that it would step up restrictive measures against Iran, targeting the country's military support for Russia in its war with Ukraine.

The bloc will extend its sanctions framework to include bans on the export and supply of components used in developing missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the EU Council said in a statement.

The measures aim to curb the transfer of Iranian-made drones, missiles, and similar technologies to Russia and armed groups in the Middle East and Red Sea regions.

Additionally, the EU has prohibited transactions involving ports and facilities linked to individuals and entities implicated in the transfer of such military equipment.

Notably, Iran’s northern ports of Amirabad and Anzali are now subject to these restrictions, though exceptions apply for humanitarian and maritime safety purposes. Both ports access the Caspian Sea, which Russia also borders.

The council also imposed sanctions on an individual and four entities for their role in supporting Russia's military operations.

Among those targeted were Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) and its director, Mohammad Reza Khiabani, accused of facilitating the shipment of drones for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy.

Three Russian shipping companies — MG Flot, VTS Broker, and Arapax — were also designated for transporting Iranian weapons and ammunition across the Caspian Sea to aid Russian troops.

The move follows Brussels' strong condemnation of Iranian provision of ballistic missiles to Russia, which it described as a significant escalation threatening European security. It builds on previous measures aimed at restricting Russia's access to military-grade technology and punishing Iran's involvement in the conflict.

The sanctions framework, initially broadened in May to encompass both drones and missiles, has been extended until July 2025. The EU reiterated its commitment to swift action in coordination with international partners to address Tehran's continued military support for Moscow.