The UK has announced plans to implement a new regime of sanctions against Iran, including expanded powers to target key decision-makers in Tehran. The proposals introduce new criteria for

sanctioning individuals and entities involved in the supply or use of Iranian weapons and military technologies. The criteria also encompass activities that undermine regional and international peace, stability, security, as well as those that pose a threat to democracy, the rule of law, and good governance.

This decision comes in response to increased attempts by the Iranian regime to harm or abduct its enemies outside of Iran. UK authorities have reported responding to over 15 threats against UK citizens and individuals since the start of 2022. It has been revealed that Iranian intelligence services have established connections with organized criminal groups across Europe to bolster their networks.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly emphasized that the Iranian regime oppresses its own people, exports violence in Ukraine and the Middle East, and poses threats of killing and abduction on UK soil. The UK's new sanctions regime sends a clear message that such malign behavior will not be tolerated and those responsible will be held accountable.

Additionally, the UK has introduced new sanctions through existing government mechanisms, targeting individuals and organizations involved in serious human rights violations in Iran. This includes officials responsible for Iranian prisons and cybersecurity-related state entities. Sanctions imposed entail travel bans, asset freezes, and prohibitions on doing business with the sanctioned individuals or organizations within the UK.

As the current holder of the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council, the UK is leading international opposition to the Iranian regime's weapons proliferation and nuclear escalation. Extensive evidence has been presented to council members, demonstrating Iran's ongoing supply of weapons to the Houthis in Yemen and Russia in violation of international law. Photo by Sasan Geranmehr, Wikimedia commons.