The UK government has announced new sanctions targeting key Iranian military figures and organizations in response to Iran's attack on Israel on October 1. These sanctions aim to curb Iran’s

destabilizing activities in the Middle East.

The measures focus on senior officials from Iran's military branches, including the Iranian Army, Air Force, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Intelligence Organization, holding them accountable for actions that contribute to escalating tensions in the region.

Among the newly sanctioned entities is the Farzanegan Propulsion Systems Design Bureau (FPSDB), which manufactures components for cruise missiles, and the Iranian Space Agency, known for developing technologies that can be used in ballistic missile systems.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated, “Despite repeated warnings, Iran’s reckless actions are fueling further conflict in the Middle East. Following its missile attack on Israel, we are holding those responsible accountable.”

Several senior Iranian military leaders were also sanctioned, including Abdolrahim Mousavi, Commander-in-Chief of the Iranian Army, and Mohammad-Hossein Dadras, Deputy Commander-in-Chief. Other sanctioned figures include key officials from the FPSDB and IRGC Intelligence, all facing travel bans and asset freezes.

The Labour Party is exploring potential amendments to laws that would enable the government to impose targeted restrictions on state-linked organizations like the IRGC. However, previous attempts to fully proscribe the IRGC have been met with resistance due to concerns that it could damage diplomatic relations with Iran.

Unlike the UK's proscription of Hamas and Hezbollah, designating part of a sovereign state, like the IRGC, as a terrorist organization would be a significant escalation. Photo by Student News Agency, Wikimedia commons.