The European Union confirmed its decision to reinstate sanctions against Iran on Monday, aligning with a similar move made by the United Nations just days prior. This action comes as a direct response to Tehran’s ongoing failure to comply with the terms of the nuclear agreement.
In a statement, the EU presidency emphasized that while sanctions are now in effect, the path for diplomatic negotiations remains open. The measures announced by the EU include freezing assets belonging to the Iranian Central Bank and other Iranian financial institutions, as well as implementing travel bans on specific Iranian officials.
Additionally, the European Union has banned the purchase and transportation of Iranian crude oil, alongside restricting the sale or supply of gold and certain naval equipment to the nation.
This follows the United Nations’ Sunday decision to reinstate an arms embargo and other sanctions on Iran, citing concerns over its nuclear program. This process was initiated by European powers—Britain, France, and Germany—who accused Iran of violating a 2015 deal designed to prevent it from developing nuclear weapons. Iran has consistently denied these allegations, maintaining that its nuclear ambitions are purely for peaceful purposes, and had previously warned of a harsh response to the re-imposition of UN sanctions.